The online survey as a qualitative research tool

• Published in: International journal of social research methodology Vol. 24; no. 6; pp. 641 - 654
• Main Authors: Braun, Virginia, Clarke, Victoria, Boulton, Elicia, Davey, Louise, McEvoy, Charlotte
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 02-11-2021; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Data Analysis; Disclosure; Dominance; Internet; Interviews; Online Surveys; Participation; Polls & surveys; Qualitative paradigm; Qualitative Research; qualitative survey; question design; research design; Sample Size; Social Science Research; Test Construction; Test Length; thematic analysis
• ISSN: 1364-5579; 1464-5300
• DOI: 10.1080/13645579.2020.1805550

Fully qualitative surveys, which prioritise qualitative research values, and harness the rich potential of qualitative data, have much to offer qualitative researchers, especially given online delivery options. Yet the method remains underutilised, and there is little in the way of methodological discussion of qualitative surveys. Underutilisation and limited methodological discussion perhaps reflect the dominance of interviewing in qualitative research, and (misplaced) assumptions about qualitative survey data lacking depth. By discussing our experiences of developing online surveys as a tool for qualitative research, we seek to challenge preconceptions about qualitative surveys, and to demonstrate that qualitative surveys are an exciting, flexible method with numerous applications, and advantages for researchers and participants alike. We offer an overview and practical design information, illustrated with examples from some of our studies.