Q-methodology

Introduction

Key terms: qualitative and quantitative research,  exploring subjectivities (such as beliefs and preferences) around complex and/or value-laden topics, KADE open-source application, introductory course, relevant for students in any PhD phase. 

ECTS: 2.5 
Number of sessions: 4
Hours per session: 4

Are you interested in how lay people or experts think about a complex topic? Do you want to provide insight in the communalities and differences between viewpoints on a value-laden subject?

Q-methodology provides a systematic approach to exploring, understanding and describing attitudes, beliefs, preferences or views, using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods.

This course provides an introduction to Q-methodology. The lectures, group discussions and exercises will guide you through all the steps in a study, from developing the research materials, collecting the quantitative and qualitative data, analysing and interpreting the data, to describing the findings.

Each of the research steps is illustrated with examples from existing studies and made practical through in-class and take-home exercises. It is an interactive course with plenty of room for questions and for sharing your initial experiences with the method.

Entry level and relevance

This is an introductory course. It is designed for PhD students from all disciplines with no or limited experience with Q-methodology. No prior knowledge of quantitative or qualitative methods is required.

This course is particularly useful if you’re interested in learning about the basics of Q-methodology, whether it concerns adding a mixed-methods approach to your analytical toolbox, understanding if it is a useful approach for one of your research ideas, or getting answers to questions you have in the phase of developing your study. 

The course can benefit students in any stage of their PhD trajectory, though it may be less useful for those who already have successful experience with the method, or are seeking support with specific questions about an ongoing study in which data collection already started or has already been done.

Relations with other courses

There are no distinct relations or significant overlaps between this course and other courses offered by the EGSH. 

Sessions and preparations

Session 1: Introduction to Q-methodology and study design
In this session we will discuss the history and basic principles of Q-methodology. We will also discuss the main steps and considerations related to developing the research materials. No preparation is required.

Session 2: Data collection
In this session we will discuss all the steps and considerations related to the data collection phase in a Q-methodology study, and we will practice with data collection. The assignment involves conducting two interviews after class and reflecting on this experience. No preparation is required.

Session 3: Data analysis and interpretation
In this session we will discuss all the steps and considerations related to data analysis and interpretation. We will also go through an example of data analysis, and we will practice with the interpretation and description of the findings. You will be asked to replicate the analysis of an existing study and reflect on all topics discussed in the course so far. No preparation is required.

Session 4: Miscellaneous topics
In this session we will cover remaining topics and questions regarding the previous sessions, and any additional topics raised by participants. In addition, we will discuss important resources for learning more about Q-methodology and we will briefly address the potential and approaches of combining Q-methodology with survey methods and conducting longitudinal Q-methodology studies. No preparation is required.