The use of Zoom Videoconferencing for Qualitative Data Generation: A reflective account of a research study

Abstract

Historically, the face-to-face interview has been the method of choice for undertaking interviews in qualitative research. However, the introduction of communication technologies (for example, Zoom) has resulted in qualitative researchers re-thinking how they generate data. This article presents the experience of a Ph.D. researcher who used Zoom videoconferencing to interview participants, including its benefits and limitations, and suggestions for future research. The article demonstrates that although video conferencing tools like Zoom are not meant to replace traditional face-to-face interviews, they are a helpful addition to the researcher's choice of methods. Although there are some technical limitations to using this tool, this can be overcome by familiarization and training. This is particularly useful due to the COVID-19 pandemic where face-to-face interaction is not allowed, disrupting their research. However, future research is needed to determine Zoom's suitability and security, especially in health and social care research.

‘ZOOMing’ in on Consulting with Children and Parents Remotely to Co-Create Health Information Resources

“…There is a growing literature that critically considers online videoconferencing methods for consultation activities or research [ 38 , 39 , 40 , 41 , 42 ], with some considering specific platforms such as Skype [ 40 , 43 , 44 , 45 ] or Zoom [ 38 , 39 , 46 ]. Less literature exists on engaging children in videoconferencing, although platforms, such as Skype [ 45 ] and Zoom [ 47 ], are being used to generate qualitative interview and other creative data effectively and safely.…”

Connecting Obstetric, Maternity, Pediatric and Preventive Child Health Care: A Comparative Prospective Study Protocol

“…An interview guide will be used and include questions about: (1) personal characteristics, such as age, parity and education; (2) overall experience of pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period; (3) overall experience of prenatal care and postnatal care; (4) experience of the introduction to PCHC; (5) experience of continuity of care; (6) suggestions to improve care. To safeguard data security, we will use a paid Zoom-account, enable password protection during the video-calls and save the recordings locally to a secure, password-protected location [ 30 , 31 , 32 ]. Participants will be blocked from the opportunity to record during the Zoom-call.…”

Evaluating the usability of a co-designed power assisted exercise graphical user interface for people with stroke

“…The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated engagement with communication technologies and the research community has shifted from face-to-face methods of data collection to increased use of video-conferencing software [39]. The study reported in this article represents an example of how remote methods of usability testing can increase reach to users of rehabilitation technologies [38] and represents a potential solution to the challenges associated with recruitment of participants for face-toface testing methods.…”

“…Usability evaluation is central to the development of acceptable and meaningful technologies which will be adopted by service providers and utilised by end users [31]. Usability testing has historically been an in-person activity where participants and researchers colocate [38]. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated engagement with communication technologies and the research community has shifted from face-to-face methods of data collection to increased use of video-conferencing software [39].…”