Zooming into qualitative research: online adaptation of the action-project method research design

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Action-Project Method (A-PM) is a comprehensive qualitative research method guided by Contextual Action Theory, which has been successfully employed to study the goal-directed actions of dyads (e.g. parent-child pairs; couples). In this article, we discuss how we adapted the A-PM to successfully collect rich longitudinal qualitative data using remote video-based data collection procedures. After describing the A-PM in detail, we draw upon an example from a recent study which successfully implemented this methodology over a video-conference platform. Data collection and analysis procedures are described, as well as the methodological integrity of the A-PM. To facilitate consideration of the appropriateness of the remote methodological adaption to the A-PM, we discuss several practical strengths and limitations. Ultimately, we maintain that it is possible and viable to complete this method online. We hope to inform a new generation of researchers about the adaptability of the A-PM research design to remote data collection procedures.