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Soliciting Diaries for 'Real-Time' Insights Into the COVID-19 Pandemic: Methodological Reflections on Using Digital Technologies to Engage the Public

Authors :
Andrea Kaiser-Grolimund
Bettina Schwind
Laura Kämpfen
Anna Lea Morgan
Giovanni Spitale
Nikola Biller-Andorno
Sonja Merten
Source :
International Journal of Public Health, Vol 69 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
Frontiers Media S.A., 2024.

Abstract

ObjectivesTo discuss the opportunities and challenges of the qualitative solicited diary approach using digital technologies as an innovative way to access insights into people’s lives and their unique stories in times of COVID-19-related social distancing in Switzerland.MethodsThis case study provides reflective arguments from a social science perspective for the selection of different (digital) diary designs to optimize data collection in the SNSF-funded project “PubliCo - an experimental online platform for COVID-19-related public perception.”ResultsThe findings highlight some opportunities of using (digital) diaries, such as empowering participants, gathering real-time data, and ethical and methodological challenges when it comes to gaining access to alternative narratives.ConclusionTo gain in-depth insights during a crisis and to reach the lesser-heard voices that are central to democratic debates, it is necessary to adapt data gathering methods and build trust with diverse communities. While digital technologies open up new possibilities for public engagement, there is a need to think critically how data gathering is approached, how trustworthy the results are, and whose voices are captured, amplified, or left out.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
16618564
Volume :
69
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
International Journal of Public Health
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.036c40c259b747bea1f02db20df761c9
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/ijph.2024.1606912