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Uleanya C, Yu K. Data Collection in Times of Pandemic: A Self-Study and Revisit of Research Practices During a Crisis. SAGE OPEN 2023; 13:21582440231160698. [PMID: 37008258 PMCID: PMC10050996 DOI: 10.1177/21582440231160698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 as a global pandemic has greatly disrupted research, not only in terms of the practicality of research activities such as data collection, but also in data quality. Using self-study in form of duoethnography method for reflecting on research practice, this article reviews and reflects on the practices of remote data collection during the pandemic and further revisits additional issues brought about by these practices and concerns. One key observation from this self-study is the prevalence of practical challenges, particularly those related to participant access, that overshadows the potential advantages of remote data collection as well as other challenges. This challenge results in researchers' reduced control of the research process and also a requirement for more flexibility, greater sensitivity toward the participants and research skills for the researchers. We also observe greater conflation of quantitative and qualitative data collection and the emergence of triangulation as the main strategy to offset potential threats to data quality. This article concludes by calling for more discussions on several areas that feature scarce discussion in literature, including potential rhetoric importance assigned to data collection, adequacy of triangulation to safeguard data quality, and the potential difference between COVID-19's impact on quantitative and qualitative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinaza Uleanya
- University of Johannesburg Faculty of Education, South Africa
| | - Ke Yu
- University of Johannesburg Faculty of Education, South Africa
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2
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Sansone V, Dall'Oglio I, Gesualdo F, Cancani F, Cecchetti C, Di Nardo M, Rossi A, De Ranieri C, Alvaro R, Tiozzo E, Gawronski O. Narrative Diaries in Pediatrics: A Scoping Review. J Pediatr Nurs 2021; 59:e93-e105. [PMID: 33622642 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM Health diaries with both clinical and narrative elements have been widely used in pediatrics to study children's and families' experiences of illness and coping strategies. The objective of this study is to obtain a synthesis of the literature about narrative health diaries using the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Sources were limited to: English language; narrative diaries; children/adolescents and/or parents/caregivers. SAMPLE The following databases were searched: PubMed, Embase and CINAHL with no time limits. RESULTS Among 36 articles included the most common context where a diary was implemented was the home (61%), the hospital (17%) and the school (14%). The most common diarist is the child or adolescent (50%). Paper diary was the most common type (53%), followed by the video diary (19%), the e-diary (8%) or the audio diary (8%). None of the studies explored the impact of the use of diaries on patient outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The narrative health diary is used to report patient experiences of illness or common life from the point of view of the child, adolescent or other family members. The diversity of the diaries found shows how the narrative diary may be 'adapted' to different settings and pediatric populations. IMPLICATIONS The narrative diary is a relevant tool for the exploration of children's and adolescents' experiences of illness and common life. Studies are still needed to describe the impact of narrative diaries keeping on children's health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Sansone
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Department of Pediatric Oncology, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy.
| | - Immacolata Dall'Oglio
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Gesualdo
- Department of Predictive and Preventive Medicine, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Cancani
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Department of Critical Care, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Cecchetti
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Department of Critical Care, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Di Nardo
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Department of Critical Care, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Rossi
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rosaria Alvaro
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Tiozzo
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Orsola Gawronski
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Hensen B, Mackworth-Young CRS, Simwinga M, Abdelmagid N, Banda J, Mavodza C, Doyle AM, Bonell C, Weiss HA. Remote data collection for public health research in a COVID-19 era: ethical implications, challenges and opportunities. Health Policy Plan 2021; 36:360-368. [PMID: 33881138 PMCID: PMC7928874 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czaa158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- B Hensen
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - C R S Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - M Simwinga
- Zambart, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - N Abdelmagid
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - J Banda
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit (MEIRU), Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - C Mavodza
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Seagrave Rd, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - A M Doyle
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - C Bonell
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - H A Weiss
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
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Wogrin C, Willis N, Mutsinze A, Chinoda S, Verhey R, Chibanda D, Bernays S. It helps to talk: A guiding framework (TRUST) for peer support in delivering mental health care for adolescents living with HIV. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248018. [PMID: 33657185 PMCID: PMC7928463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV have poor treatment outcomes, including lower rates of viral suppression, than other age groups. Emerging evidence suggests a connection between improved mental health and increased adherence. Strengthening the focus on mental health could support increased rates of viral suppression. In sub-Saharan Africa clinical services for mental health care are extremely limited. Additional mechanisms are required to address the unmet mental health needs of this group. We consider the role that community-based peer supporters, a cadre operating at scale with adolescents, could play in the provision of lay-support for mental health. METHODS We conducted qualitative research to explore the experiences of peer supporters involved in delivering a peer-led mental health intervention in Zimbabwe as part of a randomized control trial (Zvandiri-Friendship Bench trial). We conducted 2 focus group discussions towards the end of the trial with 20 peer supporters (aged 18-24) from across 10 intervention districts and audio recorded 200 of the peer supporters' monthly case reviews. These data were thematically analysed to explore how peer supporters reflect on what was required of them given the problems that clients raised and what they themselves needed in delivering mental health support. RESULTS A primary strength of the peer support model, reflected across the datasets, is that it enables adolescents to openly discuss their problems with peer supporters, confident that there is reciprocal trust and understanding derived from the similarity in their lived experiences with HIV. There are potential risks for peer supporters, including being overwhelmed by engaging with and feeling responsible for resolving relationally and structurally complex problems, which warrant considerable supervision. To support this cadre critical elements are needed: a clearly defined scope for the manageable provision of mental health support; a strong triage and referral system for complex cases; mechanisms to support the inclusion of caregivers; and sustained investment in training and ongoing supervision. CONCLUSION Extending peer support to explicitly include a focus on mental health has enormous potential. From this empirical study we have developed a framework of core considerations and principles (the TRUST Framework) to guide the implementation of adequate supportive infrastructure in place to enhance the opportunities and mitigate risks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ruth Verhey
- Friendship Bench, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Dixon Chibanda
- Friendship Bench, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Dennett R, Hendrie W, Jarrett L, Creanor S, Barton A, Hawton A, Freeman JA. "I'm in a very good frame of mind": a qualitative exploration of the experience of standing frame use in people with progressive multiple sclerosis. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e037680. [PMID: 33115893 PMCID: PMC7594359 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aim was to explore the experiences of people with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) and their standing assistants during their participation in Standing Up in Multiple Sclerosis, a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of a home-based, self-managed standing frame programme. DESIGN A qualitative approach, using audio diary methodology was used to collect data contemporaneously. Diary data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. SETTING Participants were recruited from eight healthcare organisations in two regions of the UK. The intervention was home-based. PARTICIPANTS As part of the RCT, 140 participants were randomly allocated to either usual care or usual care plus a standing frame programme. Using a sampling matrix 12 people with progressive MS (6 female, aged 35-71 years, Expanded Disability Status Scale 6.5-8.0) and 8 standing assistants (4 female) kept audio diaries of their experiences. INTERVENTION The standing frame programme involved two face-to-face home-based physiotherapy sessions to set up the standing frame programme, supplemented by educational material designed to optimise self-efficacy. Participants were encouraged to stand for at least 30 min, three times a week for the 36-week study period. RESULTS Four main themes were identified: "Feeling like the old me"; 'Noticing a difference'; "I want to do it right" and "You have a good day, you have a bad day". CONCLUSIONS Supported standing helped people with progressive MS feel more like their old selves and provided a sense of normality and enjoyment. People noticed improvements in physical and psychological symptoms, which were often associated with increased participation in activities they valued. Provision of support from a physiotherapist and recognition of the variable nature of the condition were highlighted as factors to consider when establishing a standing programme. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN69614598.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Dennett
- School of Health Professions, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Louise Jarrett
- Mardon Neurorehabilitation Centre, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Siobhan Creanor
- Medical Statistics Group, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Andrew Barton
- Research Design Service, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Annie Hawton
- Health Economics Group, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jennifer A Freeman
- School of Health Professions, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
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Bernays S, Paparini S, Namukwaya S, Seeley J. A Failed Method? Reflections on Using Audio Diaries in Uganda With Young People Growing Up With HIV in the BREATHER Trial. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:719-730. [PMID: 30499374 DOI: 10.1177/1049732318813534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we present a case study in which we consider our use of the audio diary method with young people (aged 10-24) living with HIV in Uganda in a longitudinal qualitative study conducted in a clinical randomized control trial. Despite initial enthusiasm for the method among participants to capture accounts of participants' experiences outside of the confines of the HIV clinic, the constraints the young people encountered in accessing sufficient privacy to confidently make recordings meant that no one elected to use them again in the study. Despite the insights the use of the method generated, the lack of acceptability led to its relative failure. This demonstrates that despite the call for innovation, there is an unwavering necessity when selecting methods that they align with the needs and preferences of our participants and with an attentive assessment of the local context in which illness narratives are produced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bernays
- 1 University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sara Paparini
- 2 Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Janet Seeley
- 3 Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- 4 London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Mannell J, Davis K. Evaluating Complex Health Interventions With Randomized Controlled Trials: How Do We Improve the Use of Qualitative Methods? QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:623-631. [PMID: 30871431 DOI: 10.1177/1049732319831032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Qualitative methods are underutilized in health intervention evaluation, and overshadowed by the importance placed on randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This Commentary describes how innovative qualitative methods are being used as part of RCTs, drawing on articles included in a special issue of Qualitative Health Research on this topic. The articles' insights and a review of innovative qualitative methods described in trial protocols highlights a lack of attention to structural inequalities as a causal mechanism for understanding human behavior. We situate this gap within some well-known constraints of RCT methodologies, and a discussion of alternative RCT approaches that hold promise for bringing qualitative methods center stage in intervention evaluation, including adaptive designs, pragmatic trials, and realist RCTs. To address the power hierarchies of health evaluation research, however, we argue that a fundamental shift needs to take place away from a focus on RCTs and toward studies of health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katy Davis
- 1 University College London, London, United Kingdom
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