Digital qualitative research workflows: a reflexivity framework for technological consequences

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper introduces a framework for reflexively generating a digital research workflow; that is, a qualitative research design that intentionally considers the consequences of using digital tools and spaces in meaningful ways. This framework articulates how considering technological consequences should be, and already are, a part of engaging in methodological reflexivity. While there is vast literature on reflexivity in qualitative research, little has been written about technological reflexivity. We propose four categories of consequences that should be closely considered when adopting digital tools and working within digital spaces in qualitative research designs. To conclude, we illustrate these consequence categories by drawing upon an example of a digital research workflow for transcription that we created in the context of a series of studies into how patient-centered communication skills were demonstrated by learners in the health professions at an American university.