Illuminating insights into subjectivity: Q as a methodology in applied linguistics research
Issued Date
2022-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
18686303
eISSN
18686311
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85141150668
Journal Title
Applied Linguistics Review
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Applied Linguistics Review (2022)
Suggested Citation
Thumvichit A. Illuminating insights into subjectivity: Q as a methodology in applied linguistics research. Applied Linguistics Review (2022). doi:10.1515/applirev-2021-0205 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/83462
Title
Illuminating insights into subjectivity: Q as a methodology in applied linguistics research
Author(s)
Author's Affiliation
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Applied linguistics (AL) is a broad field of study that often concerns subjective domains such as beliefs, opinions, perspectives, values and emotions. Q methodology (Q), a mixed methods approach to phenomenological and typological inquiry, is specifically designed to help researchers better understand individuals' subjective viewpoints. Although Q has existed for eight decades, it rarely intersects with language-related research. This article offers AL researchers an overview of Q and examples of its application. The overview covers its brief history and underlying theoretical concepts. The application is illustrated using a case exemplar that investigates language learners' perspectives regarding enjoyment in online learning. The advantages and limitations of Q are also discussed. There is plenty of room for AL researchers to advance Q, both as a standalone methodology and as an accompaniment to other methods.