Practicing Reflexivity: Balancing Multiple Positionalities During Fieldwork

Abstract

This case study presents the lessons learned from conducting data collection in the field for a doctoral dissertation project. The practice of reflexivity, and its importance in identifying positionalities, and recognizing how they shift over the course of the research process are examined. The needs of each positionality may not always be compatible with one another, which can lead to challenges in the field for the researcher. This case examines the different ways in which positionalities can oppose one another, and the strategies researchers can use to manage these positionalities. The lessons learned are articulated as seven steps to practicing reflexivity, which will enable researchers to manage multiple and diverging positionalities while conducting qualitative research in the field.

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