Q-Methodology
Q-methodology is an approach from psychology that explores the viewpoints of participants. The approach identifies connections between types of people and their responses.
Related Tools
Laddering
Card Sorts
Digital Tools
Using sets of cards with text or visuals, Q-methodology is a participatory approach to identify individuals’ viewpoints. Teams can then create personas or clusters of respondents. The approach uses a ‘Q-sort’ in which participants sort cards into a pyramid shaped grid. There are the same number of grid spaces as cards. The approach can be used during interviews or discussions, either individually or in groups. There are several software programs that can also aid in conducting a Q-sort remotely. Sample card decks are included in the materials section.
Q-methodology can be used in MEL in four different ways:
- Observational – single point of time reflecting on present perceptions
- Retrospective – single point of time where participants rank possible change
- Comparative – single point of time comparing the perceptions of different types of people
- Longitudinal – multiple points of time comparing different responses of the same people and changing perceptions
The approach has two objectives:
- Encourage participants to reflect on their own lives and the changes related to the program
- Identify different personas of respondents OR identify the types of changes that have been common in a program
Step 1. Clarify the objective and modality of the Q-sort
In this first step, facilitators will need to reflect on exactly what they hope to achieve using a Q-sort. This includes who the participants are, and how the activity will be conducted. Some points to think through include:
- How will the approach be facilitated? Online facilitation, interviews, or focus groups?
- Will the investigation be focused on changes over time or a snapshot of viewpoints?
- Who will be invited to participate? Change agents, beneficiaries, or staff?
Step 2. Curate the cards
Identify the types of cards to be used in the Q-sort. Further down on the page, we highlight eight Q-sort boards that reflect the number of required cards. There are four card decks at the bottom of this page. Numbering the cards can aid with quickly writing down notes. We recommended testing the cards with a variety of participants before starting. Add visuals and translate as required.
Step 3. Use the Q-sort
At the appropriate time during the interview or focus groups follow these subs-steps:
- Introduce the cards by spreading them out in front of the participant(s).
- Clarify each card to make sure the participant(s) understand what they mean.
- Introduce the pyramid sorting template.
- Ask participant(s) to start the sort. Request that participant(s) speak through their decisions.
- Step back and let the participant(s) conduct the activity.
- Write down observations of cards that are difficult or require more discussion.
- Probe participant(s) to explain their decisions.
- Once the cards are sorted, ask the participant(s) if they wish to make any changes.
- Write down the order of the cards. You may want to also take a photograph of the sort.
- Make a note of important aspects that are useful for analysis: age, gender, role, religion, ethnicity, experience or other aspects.
Step 4. Data analysis, sensemaking and sharing
The final step is to analyse the Q-sort data to create clusters of respondents. This can be done using Q-methodology software.
- (free) www.qsortware.net
- USD199/month qmethodsoftware.com
- GBP150/month www.qsortouch.com
You can also create a simple matrix with the cards as rows and respondents as columns. In each cell record the group category where each card is placed. Then use colour coding to identify patterns and themes.
To wrap up the approach, explore the data with key stakeholders in a sensemaking workshop.
Travel Restricted Times
While Q-sorts are best collected in person, they can also be completed using participatory methods.
Keeping in mind differences in access and literacy, think about different ways to facilitate and plan this approach.
|
Computer and internet access |
|
|
Basic phone access |
|
See an example of participatory activities using Google Slide.
Learn more on the digital tools page.
Sample q-sort boards
Materials and Resources
Theory of Change
Thematic Analysis
Sensemaking Workshop
Planning Template
Effective Interviewing Guide
DOCX | 968 KB
Integrity Checklist
DOCX | 970 KB
Do-no-harm Strategy
Planning Checklist
DOCX | 972 KB
Sample Participant Information Sheet
This information sheet is to be shared with potential participants. The template should be updated and translated as required.
Sample Interview Guide
This guide can be used during focus groups or workshops with participants. The template should be updated and translated as required.
Critical Consciousness Q-Sort Cards
This set of 16 square cards includes statements around gender norms. They can be ranked from disagree–agree. Revise and translated as required. The cards can also be combined with visuals.
Change-based Q-Sort Cards
This PDF contains three sets of possible GESI-related change cards. The square cards includes statements around the workplace and with different levels of detail. Revise and translate as required. The cards can also be combined with visuals.
Explore other approaches
Micronarratives
Micronarratives Also known as micro-stories or participatory vignettes, micronarratives are a collection of short stories written by participants.Related Tools Inspiration Where Most Significant Change involves the collection of stories, to select a single story,...
Photovoice
Photovoice Photovoice is an interactive photography training and participatory approach, where participants are asked to create photos of changes they observe within the program with their own smartphone cameras. Related Tools Inspiration While focusing...
Stories of Transformation
Stories of Transformation Stories of transformation are detailed case studies used to demonstrate progress towards a change or changes that a project has achieved to increase gender equality and/or social inclusion. Related Tools For this approach, stories of...
