Q sorting dynamics - A note on a computer-mediated tool and its added value to Q-methodology
Résumé
The intrinsic analysis of the results of the Q-sorts mainly focuses on the final sortings made by each individual and it can only take into account information associated with the dynamics of sorting construction through the exit interview in face-to-face context. In other inquiry contexts, the analysis of the dynamics has shown an interest, in particular, previous research on survey methodologies – e.g on the Cognitive Aspect of Survey Methodology - has confirmed the value of additional data collected thanks to digital media. In this methodological note, we explore the contribution of information collected through digital traces occuring during the sorting process. A new software allows to capture and analyze mouse traces (geometric trajectories and time sequences of all events) occuring during the two stages of Q-sorting. We report on (i) the identification of different sorting behaviours which allows to detect atypical individuals that may influence the overall results, (ii) the integration of the variations into factor calculation with weighted PCA. We present the first results obtained in a study on the perception of augmented reality for the general public.