Call for Papers: Special edition of IJSRM

Digital qualitative methods in social research

We are editing a special edition for the International Journal of Social Research Methodology (IJSRM) https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/tsrm20/current  an interdisciplinary journal dedicated to exploring methodological developments in international contexts. The special edition Digital qualitative methods in social research seeks to explore how qualitative research is being undertaken in, on and with the digital. Whilst there has been a growing awareness and literature of the ethical parameters around doing research online (c.f. (Eysenbach & Till, 2001; Rodham & Gavin, 2006) and of the means for conducting particular types of online work, such as ‘netnography’ (Kozinets, 2002; Langer & Beckman, 2005) or online surveys (Sue & Ritter, 2011; Evans & Mathur, 2005) qualitative digital methods as a whole remains an area which is expanding, growing and evolving alongside the technologies and platforms with which it engages. Those engaging in digital work are often navigating new paths, utilising reflexive practice to understand the intersection of qualitative work and digital settings and it is these experiences and practices that this special edition seeks to explore.

As part of this special edition, we are seeking 1 or 2 further papers to compliment the other papers we have selected for this special issue. We are seeking abstracts of no more than 300 words outlining the premise of the paper and key arguments, including the main qualitative digital approach or perspective the paper will engage with. Papers will be selected based on originality, contribution to understanding of qualitative digital methods and international relevance. It is essential that papers demonstrate engagement with cutting edge digital qualitative methods in order to justify inclusion. Papers from all career stages are welcome, and the process will be as supportive as possible to facilitate the involvement of PhD students and ECR. Abstracts will be assessed by the special issue editors (Dr Chris Till, Leeds Beckett University and Dr Esmée Hanna, De Montfort University) and assessed in relation to the existing contributions we have for this special issue.

Topics of papers may include, but are not limited to:

  • Theoretical engagements with ontological and/epistemological bases of particular digital methods/methodologies
  • Critical and evaluative syntheses of existing methodological approaches
  • A demonstration of, and critical engagement of with, an innovative method
  • Reflections on ethical issues in the use of particular digital methods

Please send your abstract and contact details to esmee.hanna@dmu.ac.uk and C.Till@leedsbeckett.ac.uk  by the 16th Nov 2018 .

We are hoping to have drafts of full papers by the end of January 2019 although some flexibility can be provided around deadlines.

If you have any questions, please contact us at the email addresses above.