Diaries (Video, Audio or Written)

Abstract

Diaries as a research method can be either solicited or unsolicited in form, and range from highly qualitative in nature to highly quantitative. They are most effective as part of a mixed methods approach to research and offer the user a longitudinal and current insight into participants’ activities and feelings. This currency of insight can be historical in form as diaries written historically provide geographers with a rich insight into previously hidden processes and events often written about on a daily basis. Diaries can be kept in a variety of forms, namely, written, audio, video, photograph, illustration, or blogs with each technique carrying implications for practical use, empowerment, and analysis. Diaries have been ascribed empowering characteristics, supporting feminist calls for progressive research. The analysis of diaries varies depending on the form of diary used, but data can be exceedingly rich in form and quantity.