Task 6b

Hello bloggers :)

Before deciding what tool I needed to use, first I learnt the difference between quantitative and qualitative research: 

"Quantitative researchers collect facts and study relationship of one set of facts to another." (Bell, J and Waters 2005)

"Qualitative research not only uses non-numerical and unstructured data but also, typically, has research questions and methods which are general at the start, and become more focused as the study progresses" (Punch 2005)

Comparing these two quotations taught that qualitative research is the style I need to use. I am not looking for facts and figures, I want to find out about peoples views and opinions and how they feel about different topics. 

Interviews

I think that doing some interviews with dance therapists would be a good idea as I can leave my questions as open ended so it would be more like a discussion. I can find out the methods they use and find out their own personal opinions and views on Dance Movement Therapy. I can also talk about their side of the argument relating to the surrounding topic of whether or not it is just the music which helps the patient or whether the movement helps as well. I would also record the in interview if they allow me so I can concentrate on getting the correct information which I need rather than trying to scribble all the info down. I would then transcribe it later. I would try to get a face-to-face interview if they are local as you can watch body language too however if not, over the phone or skype will work just as well.

Observations

Watching a dance therapy session would be very useful as I could see the methods they use first hand and I could watch how they bond with the patient to become 'their friend' before starting therapy. However I think this would be extremely hard to get involved with because patients with depression, anxiety or eating disorders will have low self esteem/confidence and I feel like may presence may interrupt the therapy. I could ask in the interview if they have anyone who wouldn't mind and if they allow me, I think it would be extremely useful to watch.

Questionnaires

I think the main negative about questionnaires is that it is restricting for the Dance therapists. I would be asking open ended questions and it will be harder for them to write down in small blank box than discussing it with me. However the positives of a questionnaire are that my opinions don't influence their answers as everyone is asked exactly the same questions and have to answer in the same way so it would be very standardized. 

I do feel like interviews are the way for me to go at the moment because I can go follow up on their answers and ask more questions about the answer they have given me.