Introduction to Q Methodology – Part 2
You are cordially invited to join the “Introduction to Q Methodology” workshop series organised by the Educational Research SIG of the Teaching and Learning Community of Practice (T&L CoP). This workshop series is a trial of the scaffolded workshop model, which consists of pre-workshop reading activities, main workshop and post-workshop group consultations.
Q methodology integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches to examine participants’ subjective experiences and viewpoints. The term “Q” is derived from a specific type of factor analysis. Unlike traditional methods that seek correlations among variables, Q methodology focuses on finding correlations among subjects. Specifically, participants will be asked to rank a series of Q set statements that express opinions or beliefs on a particular topic (Millar et al., 2022).
Part 2
The second workshop, led by Dr Nicola Morea, will provide participants with practical experience of analysing and interpreting Q data, and namely setting up a Q-sort file, calculating a Q-sort correlation matrix, deciding the factor extraction, rotation and retention methods, Q-sort flagging, and factor visualisation and interpretation. This will lead to a discussion around the qualitative nature of factor analysis and the importance of selecting, following and reporting criteria to justify the chosen factor solution.
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