A New Qualitative GIS Method for Investigating Neighbourhood Characteristics Using a Tablet

Abstract

This article presents a methodological and technical reflection on an innovative and interactive qualitative geographic information systems (GIS) tool and method created to gauge people's images and perceptions of their neighbourhood. Knowledge gained from the critical GIS debates has led to the development of qualitative GIS and public participation GIS (PPGIS) methods, which aim to counteract the adverse effects of GIS as predominantly top-down. Drawing from critical and qualitative GIS arguments, the authors tried to create an accessible, bottom-up GIS data-collection method that involved conducting qualitative interviews while presenting digital maps on a tablet. This digital tool allowed users to change scales by zooming in and out on the map and also offered a selection of base maps affording numerous views of the city. This method not only allowed residents to generate GIS data about their neighbourhood but was also used as a visual support tool to stimulate dialogue during the interviews. With the aid of examples from a study in Geneva, Switzerland, this article discusses the relevance, strengths, and limitations of this method in the field of neighbourhood research.