The use of Q-methodology in an exploratory study on impacts of telecommuting on people with disability

Abstract

Using Q-methodology an exploratory pilot research into individual impacts of telecommuting (or working from home) is presented. Experiences of such impacts were sought from a relatively small target population - telecommuting New Zealanders with physical disability employed in a governmental institution. In this thesis a post-positivist and objectivist research approach is used and the appropriateness of an application of Q-methodology is explored. Q-methodology is a relatively unknown research method and involves some unique theoretical underpinnings and research procedures. Some of these theories and procedures are described. Q-methodology was complemented with other methods for data collection and analysis. This mixture of methods allowed a triangulation of findings related to the impacts of telecommuting. Using multiple methods also helped to learn more about the robustness and suitability of Q-methodology in the given research context. Five participants took part in a survey, and performed a Q-methodology specific ranking procedure where statements describing impacts of telecommuting had to be sorted according to a particular instruction. Additionally, with each participant an interview was conducted. Qualitative and quantitative methods of data analysis were used and were applied sequentially. The multiple methods, the uniqueness of their combination in a complex design and the fact of inclusion of only a handful of participants made data analysis and presentation of findings a particularly challenging task. Nevertheless, the thesis shows that Q-methodology allows additional insights into the advantages and disadvantages of telecommuting, and also tentative conclusions about the suitability of Q-methodology when researching with physically disabled people.