“It’s Not Just Talking and Counting Comments”: A Reflection on Implementing Qualitative Research Projects and Training in Mysore, India
Location
DeSantis Room 1054
Format Type
Plenary
Format Type
Paper
Start Date
15-1-2020 10:15 AM
End Date
15-1-2020 10:35 AM
Abstract
The National Institute for Health’s (NIH) validation of qualitative methodologies’ contribution to translational research has increased the numbers of researchers attempting to integrate this methodology into their work (NIH , 2011). While the findings gleaned from this work can be highly advantageous for both parties, the growth of untrained “methodologists” exporting inaccurate and unethical research practices is a legitimate concern (Bloom, 2009; Khankeh et al., 2015). This is particularly concerning in lower income country research settings where power differentials complicate dynamics (Brown, 2019). Beyond obvious willful exploitations, more commonly lack of critical qualitative research knowledge and inadequate training contributes to poor research processes and inaccurate findings. While often discussed in terms of cultural competency, few studies focus on individual level components that should be considered in the development of long-term, mutually beneficial research relationships (Macklin, 2004; Schroeder et al., 2017).
This presentation will provide insights the researchers gained during their time conducting research and training others in qualitative research methods while in Mysore, India. The role of context, background and cultural humility in shaping the research processes, particularly as it relates to the training and engagement of local staff, over their 5 year time working in the region will be discussed. Further, attendees will learn how to 1) identify ways to address the considerable imbalances of power, resources and knowledge when working in resource limited settings, and 2) develop appropriate qualitative learning materials and affiliated information to support both the community and future researchers working in those communities.
Keywords
research, inequality, training, exploitation
“It’s Not Just Talking and Counting Comments”: A Reflection on Implementing Qualitative Research Projects and Training in Mysore, India
DeSantis Room 1054
The National Institute for Health’s (NIH) validation of qualitative methodologies’ contribution to translational research has increased the numbers of researchers attempting to integrate this methodology into their work (NIH , 2011). While the findings gleaned from this work can be highly advantageous for both parties, the growth of untrained “methodologists” exporting inaccurate and unethical research practices is a legitimate concern (Bloom, 2009; Khankeh et al., 2015). This is particularly concerning in lower income country research settings where power differentials complicate dynamics (Brown, 2019). Beyond obvious willful exploitations, more commonly lack of critical qualitative research knowledge and inadequate training contributes to poor research processes and inaccurate findings. While often discussed in terms of cultural competency, few studies focus on individual level components that should be considered in the development of long-term, mutually beneficial research relationships (Macklin, 2004; Schroeder et al., 2017).
This presentation will provide insights the researchers gained during their time conducting research and training others in qualitative research methods while in Mysore, India. The role of context, background and cultural humility in shaping the research processes, particularly as it relates to the training and engagement of local staff, over their 5 year time working in the region will be discussed. Further, attendees will learn how to 1) identify ways to address the considerable imbalances of power, resources and knowledge when working in resource limited settings, and 2) develop appropriate qualitative learning materials and affiliated information to support both the community and future researchers working in those communities.