Mixing qualitative research methods in children's geographies

The challenges and potential benefits of combining methods from participatory and interpretive approaches through triangulation or ‘crystallisation’ are considered.

Abstract

Human geographers are increasingly employing mixed‐method approaches in their research, including in children's geographies, where ‘child‐centred’ methods are often used alongside participant observation and semi‐structured interviews to investigate children's perceptions and experiences. Mixing qualitative methods in this way raises a number of ethical and methodological issues, particularly regarding the changing power relationships between researchers and participants. This article considers the challenges and potential benefits of combining methods from participatory and interpretive approaches through triangulation or ‘crystallisation’. The issues are illustrated through an empirical case study on children, health and exercise in the everyday spaces of the primary school.