Using Projective Techniques in Education Research

Abstract

Projective techniques are unusual and often intriguing for respondents to complete, permitting them to express thoughts and feelings which can be difficult to access by direct and structured questioning. This is achieved by presenting respondents with ambiguous verbal or visual stimulus materials, such as bubble cartoons, which they need to make sense of by drawing from their own experiences, thoughts, feelings and imagination before they can offer a response. Importantly, projective techniques can be fun and engaging for respondents, especially when they become involved in their analysis and interpretation. The various types of projective techniques are described and their benefits and drawbacks examined. A project involving students completing a range of projective techniques is used to illustrate these benefits and drawbacks.