Overcoming time and ethical constraints in the qualitative data collection process: A case of information literacy research

• Published in: Journal of Librarianship and Information Science
• Main Author: 2-s2.0-84907200115
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publications Ltd 2014
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84907200115&doi=10.1177%2f0961000614526610&partnerID=40&md5=db194f9f0af51e32172b917039458ef9

While a simultaneous data collection process is generally not recommended in qualitative research, this technique becomes necessary under certain circumstances where conducting one-site-at-a-time fieldwork is not possible. This article discusses the design of an information literacy case study that is driven by time and ethical constraints, and the strategies employed to overcome them. The constraints, (a) a brief three-month school project under study; and (b) restricted access to the respondents, have greatly influenced and shaped the design of this qualitative study. The theory applied in the study also has its impact in the research design. We argue that with meticulous planning, brief phenomenon and other challenges could still be investigated qualitatively. The study employed simultaneous data collection activities, carried out in three stages over an 18-month timespan to overcome the two constraints. This is done by carefully crafting the research protocol: firstly, by adhering to the Gorman and Clayton’s research plan circle framework; secondly, by constructing the multi-stage, simultaneous data collection protocol that addresses the unique challenges in the context of the study; and finally, by operationalizing the research plan. © The Author(s) 2014.