Introduction to Qualitative Research on the Internet

Date:

05/11/2014

Organised by:

University of Surrey, Guildford

Presenter:

Dr. Christine Hine

Level:

Intermediate (some prior knowledge)

Contact:

Elizabeth Stutchbury. 01483-689458; e.stutchbury@surrey.ac.uk

Map:

View in Google Maps  (GU2 7JP)

Venue:

Stag Hill Campus, Department of Sociology, Elizabeth Fry Building, Level 3. GU2 7JP

Description:

The Internet offers an array of possibilities for qualitative social research, ranging from unobtrusive studies of online discussions to a wide variety of means for researchers to identify, recruit and interact with research participants.

Online settings can enable qualitative researchers to engage with distributed populations, to identify rare and hard-to-reach groups, to develop long-term research relationships and to reduce the burden on research participants. There are ongoing concerns, however, with the extent to which online settings can fully meet the demands of qualitative research for in-depth understanding and contextualisation. This one-day introductory course for researchers with some awareness of qualitative techniques offers an overview of the potential and practicalities of online research. The day will include sessions covering: online observation; online interviews and focus groups; trade-offs and choices between various forms of online and offline research; practicalities of online qualitative research; and ethical concerns relating to the use of online data. Sessions will include practical exercises which involve participants exploring the use of real data derived from Internet settings and discussing a range of research scenarios which pose ethical challenges. Christine Hine has written widely on the application of qualitative research methodologies to the Internet, and has experience of using online observation and interviews across a variety of substantive fields including public understanding of science, media studies and research into parenting and the family. Dr Hine will draw both on examples from her own research and case studies in other fields, including health research and youth culture.

Cost:

Government/commercial sector - £195.00; Staff registered at Educational or Charitable Institutions - £150.00; Students - £110.00

Website and registration:

Region:

South East

Keywords:

Research Policy

Related publications and presentations:

Research Policy

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