Description

Engaging women who are homeless in community-based research using emerging qualitative data collection techniques

CHRISTINE A WALSH

Associate Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada

GAYLE RUTHERFORD

Assistant Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada

NATASHA KUZMAK

Urban Planner and Engagement Facilitator, The Federation of Calgary Communities, Calgary, AB, Canada

ABSTRACT

Increasingly qualitative research uses novel and multiple data collection methods, many of which have not been adequately documented or evaluated. This paper reviews the application of qualitative interviewing and emerging research data collection methods (photovoice, digital storytelling, design charrette and poetry) both individually and collectively in contributing to the understanding of home among homeless women. We will describe each method, present example results, comment on its success in contributing to one of the major themes of the study – characteristics of home – and offer suggestions to improve the method. Our findings suggest that multiple data collection methods which engage participants in different ways may be suitable for vulnerable populations, as they support participant expression and encourage diverse perspectives. This process could be used in other settings such as public health, clinical practice, or health education.

Keywords: qualitative research, homeless women, emerging data collection methods, photovoice, digital storytelling, design charrette