Content Validation in Q Methodology: A Roadmap to Developing Transparent Data-Collection Tools Based on a Multi-Region Pilot Process

Abstract

In the last two decades, the use of Q methodology has expanded across disciplines, raising new debates around its theoretical and practical principles. While qualitative researchers have stressed the importance of pilot studies to ensure the content validity and rigor of data collection tools, many Q methodology studies do not mention whether and how this work is accomplished. Questions and comments on this topic are also recurrently raised on the Q methodology Network listserv, demonstrating an interest within the research community. Drawing on lessons learned in developing a data collection tool for a multi-region study using Q methodology in the context of U.S. agriculture, we demonstrate how a thorough and clear pilot study can strengthen both the quality and transparency of the research process. Furthermore, our work provides a roadmap for piloting and validating data collection tools and procedures that, applied within the framework of Q methodology, improves the rigor of the research more generally.