Researching Researchers: Exploring the Challenges of Conducting Research During a Pandemic
Date
2023-11-06
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Abstract
Abstract Background: Research Assistants (RAs) play a key role in the successful completion of research. When data collection and recruitment are disrupted, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic and accompanying restrictions, the effects on RAs attempting to conduct research are not well known. Objective: This study explored RAs’ perspectives of conducting research during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Five RAs who had begun collecting data at a mid-western children’s hospital on how a robot named MEDi® could help patients uphold health and safety procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic, took part in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted on the interview data. Results: Through our analysis, we identified four key themes (and sub-themes) that reflected RAs’ experiences of conducting research during the COVID-19 pandemic: Inspiration and Motivation; Research Barriers; Human Connections and Relationships; and Creativity and Problem-Solving. The first theme focused on the sources of RAs’ inspiration and motivation to participate in research; the second focused on the barriers that affected data collection and recruitment. The third theme described the impact that human connections and relationships had on the success of the research, and the final theme explored the RAs’ creativity and problem-solving approaches, which aided in navigating the challenges faced during the pandemic. The challenges faced by RAs in this study were overcome with positive attitudes, creativity, and collaboration. Conclusion: This research experience allowed RAs to explore creative strategies to adapt research methods to suit unanticipated circumstances and develop an array of interpersonal skills to facilitate participation in future research and career activities.
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Keywords
research assistants, COVID-19 pandemic, phenomenology, challenges, qualitative research
Citation
Onuoha, O. C. (2023). Researching researchers: exploring the challenges of conducting research during a pandemic (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.