Zooming into qualitative research: online adaptation of the action-project method research design

ABSTRACT

The Action-Project Method (A-PM) is a comprehensive qualitative research method guided by Contextual Action Theory, which has been successfully employed to study the goal-directed actions of dyads (e.g. parent-child pairs; couples). In this article, we discuss how we adapted the A-PM to successfully collect rich longitudinal qualitative data using remote video-based data collection procedures. After describing the A-PM in detail, we draw upon an example from a recent study which successfully implemented this methodology over a video-conference platform. Data collection and analysis procedures are described, as well as the methodological integrity of the A-PM. To facilitate consideration of the appropriateness of the remote methodological adaption to the A-PM, we discuss several practical strengths and limitations. Ultimately, we maintain that it is possible and viable to complete this method online. We hope to inform a new generation of researchers about the adaptability of the A-PM research design to remote data collection procedures.

KEYWORDS:

• Action-project method
• contextual action theory
• qualitative research
• remote data collection
• goal-directed actions

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Anastasia K Campbell

Anastasia K Campbell is a Registered Psychologist with Koru Family Psychology in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She recently completed her doctorate in Counselling Psychology at the University of Calgary. Dr. Campbell’s clinical practice focuses on couples and family therapy. Her primary research interests align with her clinical practice and include a focus on counselling processes and clinical supervision.

José F Domene

José F Domene is a Full Professor in the counselling psychology specialization area within the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary. His research focuses on the relational contexts of career development, technology and wellbeing, and professional issues in counselling psychology in Canada. Dr. Domene is also a Registered Psychologist in the province of Alberta, Canada, whose clinical work focuses on the intersection of career-life and mental health concerns.