Online Qualitative Methods and Virtual Ethnography


Introduction

Digital technologies have become essential for empirical research across many disciplines. This course deals with concrete ways of using digital technology for qualitative data collection. It is aimed at scholars who seek to apply qualitative online data collection methods in their studies. 

Online research methods are essentially facilitators of ‘traditional’ methods, modified for use in online contexts, such as email, chat rooms, web pages, various forms of instant messaging, and other internet applications.

The course starts by introducing basic characteristics of qualitative online research methods and their temporal structure. It provides an overview of advantages and disadvantages of online research methods in general.

We continue by examining different forms of online qualitative data collection, in particular online focus groups, online interviews and virtual ethnography, addressing methodological as well as practical considerations.

Finally, we look at how to combine various online data collection methods, and tackle some ethical research issues.

Duration

5 Days

Course Objectives

  • Understand concepts and assumptions of social science methodology using digital technologies;
  • Use digital technologies to collect qualitative data;
  • Collect, analyse and integrate (merge) data collected by digital technologies, using various online qualitative methods;
  • Solve technological, ethical social science research problems using digital technologies.

Course Outline

Module 1

  1. Overview and introduction: Digital technologies as social science data collection tool
  • Online social formations and  online qualitative research methods
  • Temporal dimensions of online qualitative research (synchronous, asynchronous)
  • Pros and cons of online qualitative research

Module 2

  1. Online focus groups
  • Fundamentals of the focus group method
  • How to design an online focus group (selection, recruitment, etc.)
  • How to write online focus group questions
  • Moderation of online focus groups, number of participants in online focus groups
  • Various forms of online focus groups
  • Hands-on exercise: conducting online focus groups

Modiule 3

  1. Online In-depth Interviews
  • Fundamentals of in-depth interviews
  • How to design online in-depth interviews
  • How to prepare online interview questions
  • During the online interview: rapport, interaction, trust issues online
  • Hands-on exercise: conducting online qualitative interview

Module 4

  1. Online Fieldwork (participant observation)
  • Fundamentals of fieldwork method
  • How to design a study with online fieldwork
  • In the field (choosing sites, temporal dimensions of online fields, documenting online, asking questions online)
  • Covert/overt issues in online fieldwork
  • Hands-on exercise: conducting online fieldwork
  1. Combination of online qualitative methods with web surveys 
  • ‘FOMM’ (Flexible Online Mixed Methods)
  • Concluding discussion

Technological, ethical and methodological issues of online methods

Enroll for this Course

We are proud to offer this course in a variety of training formats to suit your needs.

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Enroll to In-Person (Face to Face)

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Enroll for a Virtual Zoom Class

Join a scheduled class with a live instructor and other delegates.

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Enroll for Online Self-paced Class

Keep track of your own progression throughout your course and ensure continuous improvement.

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Benefits of Taking a Course at IRES

LEARN

Our courses are carefully curated to keep you abreast of latest industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices. We employ a variety of teaching methodologies, including hands-on workshops, case studies, and interactive sessions, all aimed at fostering an engaging and effective learning environment. Our expert instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, providing our clients with insights that can be immediately applied in their professional lives.

NETWORK

Our courses serve as a vibrant platform for professionals to connect and engage with a diverse community of peers, industry leaders, and experts. By participating in our programs, you gain access to an invaluable network that spans across various sectors and geographical boundaries. This networking aspect is not just about forming professional relationships; it's about creating a supportive ecosystem where ideas, opportunities, and collaborations can flourish.

GROW

Our courses are designed to challenge and inspire professionals to step out of their comfort zones and explore new horizons. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, our programs help professionals refine their existing skills and acquire new ones, making them more versatile and competitive.

FAQs & Course Administration Details:

This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our IRES Training Centre or at a convenient location. For further inquiries, please contact us on Phone: +254 715 077 817 or Email: [email protected].
The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprise of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields. All facilitation and course materials will be offered in English. The participants should be reasonably proficient in English.
Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with an Indepth Research Institute (IRES) certificate certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).
Payment should be transferred to IRES account through bank on or before start of the course. Send proof of payment to [email protected].
Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training Officer. Email: [email protected] Phone: +254 715 077 817.

Who else has taken this course?


# Job Title Organisation Country
1 Uganda