External Disruptions to Qualitative Data Collection: Addressing Risks Relating to Brexit and Researcher-Participant Rapport

Authors

Shukru Esmene, University of ExeterFollow
Nick Kirsop-Taylor, University of ExeterFollow

Abstract

In this paper we present the importance of detailing the contextual conditions of a qualitative study to highlight any potential participant-researcher tensions. We emphasize the importance of understanding context in rich detail to expose societal complexities while maintaining positive participant-research rapport. Through two cases, this paper considers that bracketing, reflexivity, and transparency can be applied to form appropriate strategies to deal with external disruptions to qualitative fieldwork. The cases draw on Brexit’s impact on two studies conducted in the United Kingdom. In so doing, we argue that time, relevance, and the individuals involved can coalesce to express varied influences on a study. Thus, bracketing, reflexivity and transparency become vital to dealing with such influences; particularly when they are disruptive to a study. Overall, the strategic approach outlined by this paper can be used to maximise awareness of potential sources of tension in the field and to deal with any tensions that do arise.

Keywords

qualitative fieldwork, bracketing, transparency, reflexivity, Brexit

Author Bio(s)

Shukru Esmene is a Research Fellow working across the Geography Department and Institute of Health Research at the University of Exeter (Cornwall). His research uses qualitative methods to explore how existing academic research relating to environmental and health issues can be adapted for implementation in specific places and communities. The approaches he uses focusses on building a detailed understanding of contextual influences, these include political, cultural and socio-economic factors.

Dr Shukru Esmene, PhD. Geography, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Peter Lanyon Building, Penryn Campus, Treliever Road, TR10 9FE. Email: s.esmene@exeter.ac.uk Telephone: 07725882799

Nick Kirsop-Taylor is a Lecturer in the Politics department of the University of Exeter (Cornwall) who conducts research at the intersection of environmental politics, green public administration, and public policy. His research seeks to understand the mechanisms and interventions through which the state and bureaucracy can be mobilised as radical environmental actors.

Dr Nick Kirsop-Taylor, PhD. Department of Politics, College of Social Sciences and International Studies, University of Exeter.

Publication Date

3-3-2021

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

DOI

10.46743/2160-3715/2021.4434

Recommended APA Citation

Esmene, S., & Kirsop-Taylor, N. (2021). External Disruptions to Qualitative Data Collection: Addressing Risks Relating to Brexit and Researcher-Participant Rapport. The Qualitative Report, 26(3), 795-807. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2021.4434

ORCID ID

0000-0001-8561-6055