For my data collection, I chose to use an online questionnaire and initially a focus group. The focus group, for practical reasons became a series of semi-structured interviews, but the overall design was very similar and in both I planned to use the prompts below, to help give the participants agency to direct the conversation as they chose.
For more information about the design of the online questionnaire, responses to feedback, and a detailed interview plan, please see the post: Research methods: Design.
Prompts – In the interviews, I wanted to give participants prompts, rather than a structured set of questions, just so that I didn’t lead the conversation too much and to allow them to prioritise the topics for discussion. The prompts were cut up and available on the table for participants to choose from and focus on as they wished.
I visited all three stages of the BA Course in person and used this PowerPoint presentation to describe the project and ask people to take part. I had hard copies of the Information sheet, QR codes and an online/accessible version to try and make it as easy as possible to take part.
For the second course, I sent the emails below to staff and students.
Email to staff:
Hello everyone
I hope you’re well. I’m currently doing a research project as part of my PG Cert, which involves taking a deeper look at how the Moodle design we use in (…), and also now elsewhere, works for different groups of staff and students.
For this project, I’m looking for neurodivergent, visually impaired or disabled staff who would be willing to attend a 30minute interview with me to just talk through how you use Moodle, what is helpful, and where any barriers are, as well as any changes that would improve it. The outcomes would help to inform the development of a Moodle template across CSM.
Participation would be confidential, and the outcomes would of course be anonymised. All data will be kept securely and you could decide to withdraw at any time. Full details are on the Participant information sheet.pdf.
If you’re happy to take part, I’d be really grateful for your input. We could meet online or in person at a time that suits you. Please just reply to this message or send me a message on Teams.
Many thanks for your help.
Best wishes
Amy
Email to students:
Hello everyone!
Could you help me with my research project on Moodle design and how it impacts different groups of students?
If you are neurodiverse, visually impaired or disabled, could you join a small, friendly discussion (focus group) to share your experiences? You wouldn’t need to disclose any personal details to your classmates and your contributions would be confidential.
If you can spare an hour to join the group, please complete this Consent form, or just get in touch for more information: a.urry@csm.arts.ac.uk. I will fit the time and date around you.
