Qualitative Data Analysis at UTS series

'Combining the Quantitative and Qualitative Domains: A Geographic Perspective using Space and Place'

This is the sixth session in the ten-part series: Qualitative Data Analysis at UTS. The aim of this series is to showcase and celebrate the diverse and innovative ways UTS researchers are working with qualitative data.

In this session Hamish Robertson and Jo Travaglia examine some of the key issues in the quant-qual divide through the lens of geographic concepts and methods, including the foundational ideas of space and place. The intention is to unpack some of what we see as the limitations of the quant-qual divide, in essence a false dichotomy, by looking at how the spatial sciences deal with notions of objectivity and subjectivity in data contexts.

Hamish and Jo will connect this to some of the key research they have recently been involved in, including patient safety research with the Alfred Health system in Melbourne using GIS and natural language processing tools, and the emerging OUTBREAK project located an UTS, which focuses on antimicrobial resistance and the implications of high tech surveillance systems - including their ethical, legal and social implications.

Lastly, Hamish and Jo will discuss how a broader geographic perspective can inform both sides of the (current) quant-qual divide including repositioning social science in relation to our growing digital and digitised research environments. This is a rapidly developing field of research and one which has implications for everything from the philosophy of science through to the day-to-day work of health and social care providers. There will be something for anyone with an interest in these issues.*

* please note, this session will be recorded.