Elaine Keane
University of Galway (IE)
An Introduction to Constructivist Grounded Theory Methodology
This mini-workshop introduces Kathy Charmaz’s constructivist grounded theory (CGT). Grounded theory (GT) consists of flexible guidelines to fit particular research problems. With these guidelines, we expedite and systematise data collection and analysis.
Following a brief exploration of the history and development of GT, we examine its basic guidelines and major strategies, including initial line-by-line and focused coding, the use of gerunds, memoing, diagramming, theoretical sampling, and categorising.
Throughout the session, there is an emphasis on CGT’s epistemological foundation and resultant adaptations to the research process, including regarding the literature review, researcher positionality/ies, and participant involvement. This workshop will be of interest to those doing full CGT studies but also to those who may be interested in learning about and potentially using some of the powerful GT strategies (such as coding) in studies with a different overall methodological approach.
In-person Workshop | See the full program
Krzysztof Konecki
University of Lodz (PL)
Contemplation in Qualitative Research – Experiencing Self, No-Self, and the Lifeworld
This workshop aims to teach researchers methods of investigation that foster mindful awareness during social research and data analysis. Participants will learn how to observe the workings of the mind during research and “data” analysis, which can become an integral part of the contemplative practices of the mindful researcher. This will be taught through observing the body, mind, and emotions, especially within yoga and mindful walking.
Researchers will be guided on maintaining a mindful distance from the research fields, concepts, and methods so that these can be carefully observed and explicated. How do we arrive at conclusions? What assumptions do we hold before analyzing so-called “data” (co-created through interactions with research participants)? What emotions arise during this process? And what do these assumptions reveal about the mind of the researcher? These assumptions are theoretical or epistemological and can also emerge from the lifeworld in which we are immersed and of which we are a part.
I will teach meditation and breathing exercises as techniques to prepare researchers for observing the mind and understanding how it works. More specifically, I will introduce methods of self-observation, self-reporting, and empathetic skills, drawing inspiration from both Buddhist and Stoic philosophies. We will also explore the practice of writing contemplative notes. These notes can also be expressed in artistic forms such as poetry, drawings, paintings, collages, photography, etc.
I will provide books and papers on the topics we will discuss.
In-person Workshop | See the full program