A Discussion of Obser-View as a Method of Generating Data in the Construction Industry

Umeokafor N

doi:10.9744/ced.17.1.54-58

Abstract

This study demonstrates the paradigmatic position of obser-view and argues for the incorporation of reflectivity in obser-view to foster rigorous data generation. Aimed at introducing obser-view to the construction industry as a method of generating data, this study critically examines obser-view, exploring its application to construction research. Obser-view is an emerging data collection technique developed by Kragelund in 2006, where a non-scripted interview immediately post-observation is conducted. This helps to gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. Although researchers adopt various strategies to ensure rigor in qualitative research, there are still concerns in relation to validity, reliability, bias and objectivity in qualitative research. However, developing strategies that will help in gaining a deeper understanding of the phenomenon in study and tackling the aforementioned challenges will help in ensuring transparency in qualitative research. A review of literature is presented, the limitations and benefits of obser-view are also presented.

Highlights

There are continued challenges in the qualitative research paradigm in relation to demonstrating transparency and validity in the methodology adopted [1] and this may be because of the epistemological and ontological position of the research paradigm
Despite the above strategies and others adopted by researchers to tackle the aforementioned challenges, and the ability of qualitative research methods to provide robust tools for understanding some phenomena [6], qualitative methods remain rejected in some fields [2]
Be it as it may, some researchers such as Griffiths [6] who contend the ontological position of qualitative research, on the other hand acknowledge its sole ability to answer some research questions

Summary

Introduction

There are continued challenges in the qualitative research paradigm in relation to demonstrating transparency and validity in the methodology adopted [1] and this may be because of the epistemological and ontological position of the research paradigm. Obser-view is a data generation method, which involves the nonscripted discussion, and reflection on data collected immediately post- observations with participants with the aim of improving data generation and gaining deeper understanding of the generated data [1].

Objectives

Results

Conclusion