In this evenings Skype discussion we talked about where we all are in terms of carrying out our inquiry.
We agreed that COVID-19 has altered the way we collect data in terms of not being able to carry out interviews in person. Additionally, many of us stated how we are working full time now whereas before lockdown we had more time to focus on the degree work.
I asked how everyone found writing the questions for the focus groups/ interviews. It was stated that the broader the question the more of a response was given by participants. Adesola suggested that a great way of asking a question was to state "I experienced this..., what's your experience been...". This makes the participants feel comfortable in sharing their experiences after hearing yours, also this makes it more personal.
Again we spoke about the importance of keeping a reflective journal. Not only for our personal development but also for information from interviews and notes that have been made throughout the data collection. This makes it easier to collate information and link it to themes, literature and own experiences. Many people have focused on themes and collecting data in categories.
Ethically, we looked at how things have changed. COVID again has caused issues in terms of recognising and appreciating where participants are working within their practise and their own privileges. Everyone has had a different impact due to this pandemic and questions that were at first going to be asked may now be more sensitive than before. This may lead to creating a different procedure towards asking certain questions. Additionally, a negative cloud may overhang certain responses because of the arts being so effected. There must be a consideration of participants emotions and distress in this time.
This call was great to see how everyone is getting along with their inquiry. I found it useful in terms of finding out how everyone is collecting and storing their data. Thank you to all who attended.
Thank you so much for this summary Scarlett - I wasn't able to attend the call so it's so helpful to see what was discussed!! The point around the shift in ethical considerations is so important. It's always so easy to get stuck in your own bubble of experiences so it's really crucial to be empathetic and understand that the people you are talking to may have had a totally different set of experiences throughout all of this, making them more delicate than otherwise.
ReplyDeleteHope your inquiry process is going well so far?!
I can agree with you there. Taking a step back and looking at the bigger picture is as important as focusing on yourself I believe.
DeleteMy inquiry is going well thank you, I am holding a few interviews this week.
Hope your work is going well also.