Summary: THE qualitative research has been changing at an accelerated pace due to the increasing digitalization of processes and methods. In this article, we discuss the evolution of qualitative approaches in online environments, highlighting the role of frameworks such as Qualitative e-Research Framework and the use of digital tools for data collection and analysis. We also address the importance of an ethical stance, the unique methodological challenges of the digital universe, and the vulnerabilities that affect researchers when dealing with interactions and data on the Internet. Finally, we offer practical examples of applications in areas such as health and social sciences, concluding with tips for making the most of emerging technologies — such as requalify.ai, Nvivo, Atlas.ti, MaxQDA and Iramuteq — in a robust, reliable and responsible manner.
Introduction
The last few decades have seen a revolution in the way people connect and share information, thanks to the expansion of the internet and the popularization of mobile devices. Consequently, online qualitative research has emerged as a field in continuous evolution, as it offers new ways to explore human experiences and interactions in digital contexts (Morrow et al., 2014).
This is extremely important for researchers: social networks, forums, messaging apps, streaming platforms and other virtual interfaces currently contain a significant amount of subjective data. Collecting and analyzing this data can reveal profound insights into behaviors, cultures and social practices. Advanced tools — such as requalify.ai, Nvivo, Atlas.ti, MaxQDA and other solutions Software for qualitative data analysis — are opening up new possibilities for codification and automated (or semi-automated) treatment of these materials, without losing sight of scientific rigor.
However, at the same time that the qualitative research with AI develops, researchers face new ethical, methodological and technical challenges. After all, online interactions are not always clear, and obtaining informed consent fits differently than traditional surveys. In addition, questions of privacy, anonymity and data protection become even more complex in the virtual environment, requiring increased attention from scholars.
In this article, we discuss how the Qualitative e-Research Framework (Gregory, 2018) can guide robust and secure research in online environments, illustrating, through practical examples, how these methodological approaches can be applied in different areas, such as health and social sciences.
So we also discussed vulnerabilities that affect not only research participants but also researchers themselves, who may encounter emotionally challenging situations or ethical dilemmas when dealing with sensitive data (Thompson et al., 2021).
Concepts and Definitions about Online Qualitative Research
Online Qualitative Research
THE online qualitative research groups together methods and techniques whose objective is to explore subjective and interpretative aspects of behaviors and interactions in virtual environments. Platforms such as social networks, forums, blogs and digital communities become rich databases that can reveal patterns of meanings, attitudes and values (Markham, 2012). By capturing information that would be difficult to observe in face-to-face contexts, researchers are able to have contact with spontaneous and, sometimes, even more authentic reports than in face-to-face interviews.
Qualitative e-Research Framework
THE Qualitative e-Research Framework (Gregory, 2018) emerges as a structure that helps researchers plan, execute and reflect on studies in the digital environment. It is a conceptual framework that guides each stage of the research, from the definition of objectives and selection of digital tools to the ethical processing of data, emphasizing issues such as privacy and consent.
Thus, this framework proposes, for example, that data collection in forums or social networks be accompanied by constant reflection on the validity of the information and methodological adequacy. Therefore, it is not enough to simply “migrate” a face-to-face interview to a virtual one; it is necessary to consider the technological interface and how it influences the interaction between researcher and participant (Thompson et al., 2021).
Digital Tools
Undeniably, the rapid advancement of technology has led to the proliferation of a wide range of digital tools intended to facilitate the qualitative data analysis. In this sense, consolidated names, such as Nvivo and Atlas.ti, now share space with increasingly sophisticated solutions, such as requalify.ai, which bets on artificial intelligence to transcription and encoding support. In turn, options such as MaxQDA and Iramuteq, specialize in content analysis, text mining and semantic pattern identification capabilities.
Above all, the adoption of these tools allows not only to speed up the analysis process, but also to expand the range of data that can be interpreted, whether text, audio or video. Especially in large-scale research, the ability to process large amounts of information becomes crucial to deal with the complexity of the virtual world.
Digital Ethics
THE digital ethics brings together a set of guidelines that aim to protect participants and researchers in studies conducted on the internet (Anderson et al., 2018). Issues such as informed consent online, correct use of personal data, maintenance of confidentiality and responsible disclosure of results are fundamental pillars to avoid any type of rights violation.
The challenge lies in applying traditional ethical principles to a context where geographic and temporal boundaries can become blurred, in addition to platforms that encourage the “overexposure” of information. Thus, digital ethics requires a critical and up-to-date view, compatible with the speed at which new technologies and platforms emerge.
Researcher Vulnerabilities
The idea of researcher vulnerabilities highlights the situations of risk and emotional exposure to which many professionals are subject when conducting online research (Thompson et al., 2021). Hostile interactions in forums or social networks, difficulty in checking the reliability of information shared by participants, and dilemmas regarding sensitive data are examples of contexts that can affect the researcher's well-being and ability to make judgments.
Recognizing these vulnerabilities is the first step in establishing safety and emotional support protocols, ensuring that the research process is ethical not only for the participant, but also for the researcher.
Main Ethical and Methodological Challenges
Informed Consent in Digital Environments
The challenges of informed consent online are significant. In open forums or social networks, the definition of who is a participant—and whether they have actually consented—can be unclear (Jones et al., 2021). Furthermore, individuals who do not read the terms of use, or who are unaware that their content is being analyzed, may unwittingly participate in a study.
To mitigate these risks, researchers must invest in clear communication strategies and adapt the consent process to the particularities of the virtual environment. This involves constant reviews of digital forms, language adjustments, and provision of support channels to clarify doubts.
Privacy and Anonymity
Protect the privacy and the anonymity is essential when dealing with sensitive information. Even when consent is given, researchers need to ensure that personal and contextual data that could identify the participant are properly removed or encrypted. Therefore, tools such as requalify.ai and NVivo They offer resources to mask or encrypt information, reducing the chance of leaks and ensuring greater security for those participating in the study.
Data Representativeness
While the digital universe opens doors to diverse populations, it can also introduce bias. Access to the internet and technologies is not uniform across regions, age groups or social classes (Guntrum et al., 2022). This disparity makes it necessary to carefully analyze the sample in order to avoid conclusions that do not reflect the reality of underrepresented groups.
Methodological Approaches for the Digital Context
Adapting traditional qualitative methods — such as participant observation, interviews and focus groups — is not always simple in the digital environment. Virtual dynamics can encourage synchronous interactions (e.g., video calls) or asynchronous interactions (e.g., exchanging messages on forums), requiring data collection instruments to be appropriate for each situation (Morrow et al., 2014).
In addition, new methodologies native to the online context are emerging, such as social network analysis, virtual ethnography, and techniques for tracking interactions across platforms. This requires technical and conceptual preparation, as well as a continuous exercise of reflexivity on how the digital environment shapes research practices.
Qualitative e-Research Framework in Practice
THE Qualitative e-Research Framework consists of a conceptual tool that helps researchers deal with the complexity of the online world. It provides:
- Methodological Planning: Choosing techniques appropriate to the type of digital environment investigated, whether interviews via videoconference or analysis of posts on social networks.
- Ethical Protection: Clear guidelines on consent, privacy and possible participant withdrawal.
- Reflexivity: Encouragement for the researcher to question their own intentions, emotions and positions, avoiding biases and practices that put the integrity of the data or the subjects researched at risk (Thompson et al., 2021).
- Data Analysis: Guidelines for selecting software and analytical strategies, including Software for qualitative data analysis, such as requalify.ai, Nvivo, Atlas.ti and Iramuteq.
New Technologies and Their Impacts
Expanding Collection Possibilities
With the use of mobile devices and research applications, it is possible to perform real-time collection. This is particularly advantageous in studies that require continuous observation or contextual records, such as research on consumption habits or health routines (Guntrum et al., 2022).
On the other hand, ease of access can lead to an excessive volume of data, requiring tools that assist in the organization and analysis of qualitative data. Software capable of automatically transcribing audio and video interviews — such as requalify.ai — reduce processing time and allow the researcher to focus on interpretation and generating insights.
Restriction by Technological Dependence
The same technology that expands the reach of research can, paradoxically, restrict the participation of populations without internet access or unfamiliarity with digital platforms (Thompson et al., 2021). This factor needs to be considered, as it tends to create samples with less representation of marginalized groups. Additionally, constant technological evolution requires researchers to dedicate time to update themselves and learn how to use new tools or software versions.
Researcher Vulnerabilities in Online Environments
When data collection takes place in virtual spaces, the researcher is subject to potentially stressful or emotionally draining contexts. Participation in forums or discussion groups on sensitive topics can trigger intense reactions, making the researcher a target of criticism or even hostile behavior (Thompson et al., 2021).
Furthermore, dealing with large amounts of information can generate cognitive overload. The researcher needs to filter out irrelevant data, identify patterns, assess the veracity of the information and still maintain an empathetic and ethical view of the material analyzed.
To mitigate such vulnerabilities, it is recommended to maintain a support network, whether in institutional research groups or in virtual communities of researchers, in addition to developing contingency plans to deal with possible ethical or emotional crises.
Examples and Applications in Specific Areas
Health Applications
In healthcare, online qualitative research plays a crucial role in understanding patient behaviors and self-care dynamics in virtual communities. Support forums for chronic conditions, for example, provide access to rich narratives that reflect the experience of living with a given disease, as well as the impact of social and cultural factors (Morrow et al., 2014).
Data collection on digital platforms contributes to the development of more contextualized and humanized health policies. At the same time, the use of automatic transcription via AI tools such as requalify.ai, speeds up the analysis of large volumes of testimonies, preserving nuances of speech and facilitating codification of the contents.
Practical Examples in Social Sciences
In the social sciences, investigating phenomena such as political mobilizations, identity construction, and civic engagement online can provide insights into the impact of digital networks on modern life (Jones et al., 2021). By employing content analysis In social media posts, the researcher can map speeches, expressions of solidarity or manifestations of conflict, obtaining a dynamic portrait of a virtual community.
Techniques such as netnography (ethnography applied to the internet) help to interpret symbolic exchanges, values and rules of conduct in virtual environments. To do this, software such as Atlas.ti, MaxQDA and Iramuteq provide tools to identify textual patterns, emerging themes and semantic relationships, allowing an in-depth “reading” of social interactions.
Historical Context and Current Relevance
Historical Evolution
Historically, the qualitative research was marked by face-to-face methods and relationships. However, the advancement of the internet has driven the reconfiguration of these methods, challenging researchers to rethink concepts of field, participant and technological mediation (Markham, 2012). The first online studies focused on chat rooms and blogs, and now they extend to a vast and multiplatform ecosystem that includes social networks, video streaming, mobile applications and immersive realities.
Current Relevance
The current scenario demands researchers capable of interpreting complex and dispersed interactions in different digital environments (Morrow et al., 2014). The constant emergence of new platforms — as well as the mass adoption of the internet by populations of different age groups — broadens the scope of studies and increases the need for consistent online methodologies.
Likewise, with the popularization of the “home office” and distance learning, for example, provide opportunities for studies on engagement, productivity and mental health, illuminating aspects of our connected society.
Future Implications of Online Qualitative Research
Expansion of Digital Tools
The future of qualitative research with AI points to even more advanced features. Semantic analysis tools and algorithms capable of identifying emotions and feelings in speeches can help researchers navigate large volumes of data (Anderson et al., 2018).
THE requalify.ai emerges as a promising platform, providing automated transcription and coding solutions that integrate security and anonymization protocols.
Personalization and Hybridization
Another likely path is hybridization of methodologies, combining traditional and digital methods. In the same project, virtual interviews and in-person observations can be conducted, creating more solid data triangulations. This personalized approach meets the specificities of different contexts and populations, improving the quality of the conclusions.
Evolving Ethical Challenges
As new technologies emerge, ethical issues become more complex (Anderson et al., 2018). Online qualitative research inevitably involves personal data being exposed online, whether voluntarily or not.
Therefore, regulations and guidelines tend to become more stringent, especially regarding privacy, consent and the use of automated algorithms that can track and process large amounts of information in just a few seconds.
Practical Tips
Familiarize yourself with the Qualitative e-Research Framework: Before starting any investigation, seek to understand its guidelines for planning, data collection and methodological reflection (Gregory, 2018).
Invest in Appropriate Technological Tools: Softwares like requalify.ai, Nvivo, Atlas.ti, MaxQDA and Iramuteq speed up analysis by providing support for codification, indexing and categorizing content. Choose the one that best suits your type of study.
Validate Ethical Issues: Develop clear consent protocols that are appropriate for the online environment and review them regularly to ensure participant protection.
Evaluate Connection and Device Quality: Many surveys may face practical challenges, such as lack of stable internet access. Consider these factors when defining your sample and methods.
Continuous Training: Invest in courses or training on new digital technologies and methodologies. The rapid transformation of the online scenario requires constant learning.
Plan Support Strategies: In cases of aggressive interactions or data collection on sensitive topics, keep in mind support and supervision mechanisms that help the researcher deal with possible adversities.
Conclusions
THE online qualitative research already occupies a central place in the human and social sciences, as well as in areas such as health, marketing, education and many others. The advent of new technologies and digital platforms requires an increasingly attentive look at digital ethics and the application of methodological approaches consistent with the complexity of virtual environments (Gregory, 2018; Markham, 2012).
Tools artificial intelligence and specialized software — exemplified by requalify.ai, Nvivo and Atlas.ti — enhance the content analysis of large volumes of data, facilitating answers to sophisticated research questions without losing academic rigor.
At the same time, the researcher must be aware of vulnerabilities, both from the public and from himself, in relation to invasive practices and emotional risks inherent in the exploration of certain themes in the digital environment.
The challenge now lies in maintaining a reflective and ethical stance in the face of a constantly changing universe, developing research strategies that take advantage of the best of digital technologies without sacrificing methodological integrity.
Online qualitative research is consolidating itself as one of the most promising areas of contemporary science, providing unique opportunities to explore the multifaceted nature of human experience in the era of connectivity.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is online qualitative research?
It is the investigation of subjective and interpretative aspects of behaviors and interactions in virtual environments, such as social networks, forums and digital communities.
What tools can I use to analyze qualitative data in digital environments?
There are several options, such as requalify.ai, Nvivo, Atlas.ti, MaxQDA and Iramuteq. The choice depends on the type of data, the scope of the project, and the required functionalities, such as automatic transcription, coding, or content analysis.
How to deal with ethical issues in online research?
It is essential to ensure informed consent, protect privacy and anonymity, and respect institutional norms and local regulations. The use of clear protocols and reviews by ethics committees is highly recommended.
How to overcome the problem of representation in online studies?
Use sampling strategies that consider the diversity of the population, offering participation alternatives for groups without internet access or without digital skills. Assess potential biases and discuss their limitations in the analysis.
What are the researcher's vulnerabilities in digital environments?
These risks may include exposure to hate speech, emotional overload, and difficulty assessing the veracity of collected data. A professional or academic support network and safety protocols can help reduce these risks.
Is the Qualitative e-Research Framework mandatory for all online research?
It is not mandatory, but it offers a consistent set of guidelines that facilitates the organization, execution and critical reflection on qualitative studies in the digital environment, encompassing methodological and ethical aspects.
Bibliographic References
- Anderson, J. C., Skare, E., & Dorroll, C. (2018). Nothing to Hide, Nothing to Fear? Tools and Suggestions for Digital Data Protection. The Qualitative Report, 23(5), 1223-1236. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2018.3328
- Gregory K. (2018). Online Communication Settings and the Qualitative Research Process: Acclimating Students and Novice Researchers. Qualitative Health Research. 28(10):1610-1620. doi:10.1177/1049732318776625
- Guntrum, L. G., Güldenring, B., Kuntke, F., & Reuter, C. (2022). Using digitally mediated methods in sensitive contexts: a threat analysis and critical reflection on data security, privacy, and ethical concerns in the case of Afghanistan. For Peace and Reflection 11, 95–128. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42597-022-00088-2
- Jones, A., Caes, L., Rugg, T., Noel, M., Bateman, S., & Jordan, A. (2021). Challenging issues of integrity and identity of participants in non-synchronous online qualitative methods. Methods in Psychology, 5: 100072. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.metip.2021.100072
- Markham, A. (2012). FABRICATION AS ETHICAL PRACTICE: Qualitative inquiry in ambiguous Internet contexts. Information, Communication & Society, 15(3), 334–353. https://doi.org/10.1080/1369118X.2011.641993
- Morrow, O., Hawkins, R., & Kern, L. (2014). Feminist research in online spaces. Gender, Place & Culture, 22(4), 526–543. https://doi.org/10.1080/0966369X.2013.879108
- Thompson, A., Stringfellow, L., Maclean, M., & Nazzal, A. (2021). Ethical considerations and challenges for using digital ethnography to research vulnerable populations. Journal of Business Research, 124, 676-683. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0148296320301314
