In the room where it happens: in-person or remote data collection in qualitative research?

Abstract

10.1136/ebnurs-2022-103535 Introduction Qualitative research is founded on the collection of rich data through methods such as onetoone interviews and focus groups, and usually with all parties together in the same place (referred to thereafter as the ‘inperson’ approach). However, since the onset of the COVID19 pandemic in early 2020, access to health and social care settings has been restricted and many researchers have been subjected to ‘workathome’ orders. Consequently, there has been a rapid transition to many interactions and meetings taking place remotely, using technologies such as videoconferencing platforms. This has impacted substantially on opportunities for inperson data collection. But has the pandemic damaged the ability to gather rich qualitative data, or has it served as a catalyst for more effective, efficient and pragmatic approach to qualitative data collection? In this paper, we explore the arguments for and against remote data collection in qualitative research, focusing specifically on the use of the telephone and Videomediated communication .