Lecture 3 - DrawingOut & Thematic Analysis Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of DrawingOut in qualitative research?
- DrawingOut uses drawing as a means for participants to express their inner experiences, especially related to sensitive issues that are hard to verbalise, like mental health issues or personal trauma
- The visual metaphors produced are analysed thematically to uncover deeper meanings
How are visual metaphors used in DrawingOut?
- Visual metaphors help participants create representations of abstract concepts or emotions
- For example, drawing mental health as a dark cloud allows participants to discuss their struggles in a less confrontational way
- This method provides insights into participants’ subconscious understanding of their on experiences
Describe the key stages in the DrawingOut process
1) Introduced to drawing: Participants are introduced to drawing exercises designed to represent their emotions or experiences
2) Metaphor creation: Participants create metaphors for personal experiences.
3) Drawing sharing: Participants explain their drawings in a group setting, encouraging discussion
4) Data collection: These discussions are recorded and transcribed for analysis
5) Thematic analysis: Researchers use thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes from the drawings and discussions
What are the unique features of DrawingOut compared to other qualitative methods?
- DrawingOut is distinct because it integrates visual expression, which can be especially powerful for participants who may struggle with verbalising complex emotions
- It also uses metaphors to discuss sensitive topics, which helps participants feel less vulnerable
What is the role of thematic analysis in DrawingOut?
- Thematic analysis is used to systematically analyse participants’ drawings and the accompanying discussions
- It involves coding the data to identify recurring themes, which are then refined and integrated into a coherent narrative that reflects the group’s shared experiences
What is the difference between inductive and deductive thematic analysis?
- Inductive thematic analysis: themes emerge naturally from the data without pre-conceived categories. This is often used in exploratory research
- Deductive analysis: The researcher uses a pre-existing framework or theory to guide the analysis, which might be more structured and hypothesis-driven
What are the phases involved in conducting thematic analysis?
1) Familiarising with the data: Reviewing transcripts and notes multiple times
2) Generating initial codes: Highlighting important sections of the data and creating initial codes
3) Searching for themes: Grouping similar codes to form broader themes
4) Reviewing themes: Checking if the themes fit with the data and are coherent
5) Defining and naming themes: Finalising the themes and defining their scope
6) Writing the report: presenting the findings in a structured and clear format
What are some challenges in thematic analysis?
- Subjectivity: The researcher’s interpretation may influence the themes that are identified
- Over-simplification: Reducing complex data into themes can sometimes lose nuance
- Ensuring consistency: Ensuring the same themes emerge consistently across different analysis
How does DrawingOut assist in addressing sensitive topics?
- By using visual metaphors, DrawingOut allows participants to express difficult or taboo topics in a less direct and ore approachable manner
- This is particularly useful for subjects like mental health, trauma, or health conditions, which participants may otherwise find difficult to talk about
What are some advantages of using visual metaphors in research?
- They make abstract or complex topics more tangible and accessible
- They help break down barriers for participants who may feel uncomfortable discussing sensitive issues
- They provide a more holistic understanding of the participant’s views and experiences
How does DrawingOut help in research dissemination?
- This method produces tangible materials, like a booklet with participants’ drawings, that can be used to share findings
- These materials are often more engaging and accessible to the general public compared to traditional reports
How is trustworthiness ensured in DrawingOut?
- Triangulation: Using different data sources (drawings, audio, discussions) to cross-check findings
- Member checking: Allowing participants to review the themes and interpretations to ensure accuracy
- Reflexivity: Researchers reflect on their own biases and how these might influence the data analysis
What is the role of reflexivity in qualitative research?
- Reflexivity involves researchers critically examining their own role in the research process
- This includes considering how their background, beliefs, and perspectives may influence the data collection, analysis, and interpretation
What are the overall strengths of the DrawingOut method?
- Empowering: It allows participants to reclaim their narratives and make their voices heard in a supportive, creative way
- Flexible: The method can be adapted to different contexts, such as health issues, education, or social problems
- Visual appeal: The use of drawings makes the research more engaging and can reach a broader audience
What are some limitations of the DrawingOut method?
- Dependence on artistic skill: Some participants may feel uncomfortable with the drawing aspect or not feel artistic, which could limit their expression
- Interpretation: Analysing drawings can be subjective, and meanings may differ across cultural or personal contexts
- Group dynamics: Participants may be influenced by others in group settings, especially if they feel their drawings are being judged
