Applicability of Q-methodology in public engagement practice for large urban park development – Case of Seoul Yongsan Park

Abstract

This study explores the applicability of Q-methodology as an evaluative tool in urban park development projects, assessing its effectiveness for public engagement practices and uncovering nuanced perspectives often overlooked in conventional large-scale programs. While Q-methodology is renowned for its quantitative analysis of qualitative data, its potential as a qualitative method remains underexplored. Combining Q-methodology with 1:1 interviews, utilizing Q-sort sets as guides, allows participants in the Yongsan Park Development Project (YPDP) to articulate detailed interpretations of their positions. Analyzing 20 participants' perspectives revealed five distinct factor groups, emphasizing preferences for a ‘park with a unique identity,’ ‘pastoral landscape park,’ ‘cultural activities park,’ ‘economically efficacious park,’ and “a ‘public’ park.” Notably, a majority favored a park with a unique identity, aligning with previous public engagement outcomes. Unprecedentedly, the study identifies heightened interest in the project's economic effectiveness, vital for YPDP's future viability. The findings underscore Q-methodology's efficacy in evaluating past public engagement outcomes, offering a valuable tool for navigating evolving contexts in long-term, large-scale urban park development. The study advocates for governmental engagement practices to experiment with diverse methodologies and participant scopes to enhance understanding of public needs and perspectives.