Utilizing Asynchronous Email Interviewing for Qualitative Research Among Multiple Participant Groups

Perspectives on Met and Unmet Needs From Chaplain Staffing

Bibliographic Data

ID2411744
AuthorsShelly L Harris (0000-0002-6827-5487), Martin Shaw (0000-0002-0614-5062), Jeanette F Green (0000-0001-5746-3178)
Year2024
Volume23
Publication date2024-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Qualitative Methods (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1609-4069 • E-ISSN: 1609-4069
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/16094069241257943
OpenAlexW4399033581
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited69

Asynchronous email interviewing has been increasingly utilized as an electronic method of data collection in qualitative research, because it eliminates the need for costly travel and transcription and allows more time for participants to react with thoughtful, reflective responses. While research indicates that data collected in written form is comparable in content and richness with that collected in-person, via telephone, or through virtual live interactions, there is the risk of participant attrition, loss of trust-building with subjects and missing non-verbal/visual cues for the researcher. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate use of asynchronous email interviewing as applied to a study on expectations and demands of chaplains in hospital settings. Unique in this approach is the inclusion of multiple participant groups over a large geographical area. Data were collected among chaplains, chaplain leaders, nurses, hospital executives, and patients and family members across a multi-state healthcare system. Although enrollment was adequate, 37% of those enrolled did not respond to initial interview emails, and of those who did respond, only 42% responded to follow-up questions. For several participants who did not respond to requests for email interviews, subsequent invitations to participate in live virtual interviews were preferred. Analysis reflected significant differences between groups in the quantity, quality, and richness of data, which may reflect communication patterns and preferences, time restrictions, and subject matter engagement. Based on study findings, it is suggested that similar studies offer options of interview modalities to participants to best meet their preferences and schedules

Asynchronous communication · Interview · Medical education · Qualitative research · Sociology · Staffing · Computer Science · Focus Groups and Qualitative Methods · Health Literacy and Information Accessibility · Medicine · Mental Health via Writing · Nursing · Psychology

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