Adapting the Q Sort Research Methodology for Instructional Purposes
Abstract: The Q methodology provides a quantitative means of examining subjectivity. The cornerstone of this methodology is a data collection activity called a Q sort in which participants must sort a list of given items within a predetermined sorting form that resembles an inverted normal curve. Although the Q Methodology has a long history as a research tool, its use as an instructional tool has not been extensively explored. This is likely due to the fact that the apparatus for conducting a Q sort is difficult to prepare in its traditional, paper-based form. Few electronic versions have been produced and the ones that are available can be very expensive. To meet this challenge, an original electronic version of a Q sort tool was built. The purpose of this research was to use formative evaluation procedures to revise the prototype while designing a suitable instructional strategy for integrating the Q sort activity within the teaching of graduate-level courses.