Utilizing a Matrix Approach to Analyze Qualitative Longitudinal Research: A Case Example During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Qualitative Longitudinal Research (QLR) is an evolving methodology used in understanding the rich and in-depth experiences of individuals over time. QLR is particularly conducive to pandemic or disaster-related studies, where unique and rapidly changing environments warrant fuller descriptions of the human condition. Despite QLR’s usefulness, there are a limited number of articles that detail the methodology and analysis, especially in the social sciences, and specifically social work literature. As researchers adjust their focus to incorporate the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, there is a growing need in understanding the progression and adaptation of the pandemic on individuals’ lives. This article provides a process and strategy for implementing QLR and analyzing data in online diary entries. In the provided case example, we explore a phenomenological QLR conducted with graduate level students during the COVID-19 pandemic ( Saltzman et al., 2021 ) , and outline a matrix framework for QLR analysis. This paper provides an innovative way in which to engage in qualitative data collection and analysis for social science research.

Community well-being dimensions in Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

“…This techniques of data collection are aligned with stated in Lietz and Zayas ( 2010 ) in increasing the trustworthiness of qualitative research. This qualitative longitudinal research method was chosen for this study because it is suitable for pandemic or disaster-related studies in which unique and rapidly changing environments necessitate more comprehensive descriptions of human condition (Terzis et al, 2022 ).Furthermore, we also employed the reflexivity method of writing memos or field notes throughout data collection in order to comprehend the significance of each interview and observation session as suggested by (Yong et al, 2019 ) to ensure the quality of our qualitative study.…”

Unveiling maker mindsets: a journey of formation and transformation through design thinking-making pedagogy within a lesson study context

“…To facilitate our analysis, we utilized a coding matrix adapted from Terzis et al (2022). This matrix was visually depicted in Figure 3, where the MM attributes of each case student intersect with six columns, corresponding to distinct stages of DT experienced in the RLs.…”

Disaster Diaries: Qualitative Research at a Distance

“…Initially utilized to record the sightings of ‘natural phenomena’ in medical, astronomical and agricultural research (Hyers, 2018, p. 2), diary research has become increasingly used within the social sciences in recent decades (Filep et al, 2018; Hyers, 2018; Alia et al, 2013; Langevang, 2007; Meth, 2003). Diaries for disaster research saw a resurgence during the COVID-19 pandemic – emphasising the value of collecting insights which are both detailed and longitudinal during crisises (Mueller et al, 2022; Rudrium, Casey and Rondinelli, 2022; Scott, 2022; Saltzman et al, 2021; Terzis et al, 2022). COVID-19 diary studies have contributed detailed emotional narratives of diarists' experiences (Scott, 2022), providing fine-grained information on individuals’ ‘progression and adaptation’ through the different phases of this crisis (Terzis et al, 2022).…”

“…Diaries for disaster research saw a resurgence during the COVID-19 pandemic – emphasising the value of collecting insights which are both detailed and longitudinal during crisises (Mueller et al, 2022; Rudrium, Casey and Rondinelli, 2022; Scott, 2022; Saltzman et al, 2021; Terzis et al, 2022). COVID-19 diary studies have contributed detailed emotional narratives of diarists' experiences (Scott, 2022), providing fine-grained information on individuals’ ‘progression and adaptation’ through the different phases of this crisis (Terzis et al, 2022).…”

“…Despite their sometimes longer lead times and lower participant numbers, qualitative data can play a crucial role in enriching understanding of people's experiences, perspectives, and how social issues intersect in place (Atieno, 2009). Use of qualitative researchincluding during previous crisescan support policy makers to (re)conceptualize people's situations, aspirations, and capacities; facilitating multifaceted and meaningful explanations of vulnerability and empowerment, potentially leading to novel and more inclusive policies (Terzis et al, 2022;Raven et al, 2018;Simosi et al, 2015;Heltberg, et al, 2012;Walker & Hall, 2010).…”