Research methods on the Internet (original) (raw)

Gruyter Mouton. This chapter considers how the various internet communication technologies discussed in Section I can and have been used to support, and arguably transform, social and behavioural research methods. Focus here is on primary research, that is, "the acquisition and analysis of data to produce novel evidence and research findings" (Hewson, Laurent and Vogel, forthcoming). Primary research on the internet has been referred to as internet-mediated research (IMR) (Hewson et al. 2003) and this term will be adopted throughout the present chapter. The chapter will not consider secondary research on the internet, such as conducting a literature review or creating a bibliography; for useful guides on the latter see Hewson et al. (2003); Ó Dochartaigh (2012). The structure of the chapter is as follows: overview and history of IMR; scope and range of IMR methods, with illustrations; key issues and debates in IMR (data quality, sampling, ethics); future possibilities and ...

The Methodological Issues Associated With Internet-Based Research

Qualitative researchers and social scientists are increasingly using the internet as a site for social research and observation. However, due to unique spatial arrangements online and new modes of social interaction, the internet brings with it a number of complex methodological issues. This paper draws on a case study titled Fan Fiction Online: Celebration or Appropriation? – a qualitative study conducted by the author in 2007 – and seeks to identify significant methodological issues which were encountered in the case study, and by other researchers attempting work of a similar nature. The methodological issues discussed in this paper are related to the following broad themes: the nature of the sample, modes of communication online, the blurring of public and private spaces, and confidentiality, consent and deception. This paper also finds that the discourse surrounding the relationship between online and offline realities may have significant implications for the role of Institutional Review Boards (IRB's) and the consideration of renewed methodological guidelines online. It is suggested that renewed methodological guidelines be developed which address the unique research issues associated with the internet, while considering its relationship with the physical world.

Proper methodologies for psychological and sociological studies conducted via the Internet

Behavior Research Methods, 1996

This paper outlines specific methodologies for conducting research via computer networks. We discuss advantages of Internet experimentation over previous modes of telecommunication-facilitated research and characterize features of studies that can benefit from Internet access and those which are unlikely to. We point out pitfalls and suggest a range of potential solutions in terms of specific practical techniques for managing the design, dissemination, and collection of Internet materials. We also discuss techniques for minimizing attrition and for adapting to recalcitrance presented by “hacker” vandalism.

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