Interview with Aaditya Pradhan: Exploring New Horizons
Can you start with sharing your general experience of the advanced training on qualitative research methods (QRM)? What were your expectations coming into the training, and how did the actual experience align with those expectations?
Aaditya: The experience of the training absolutely met my expectations. What I expected was to explore and understand how qualitative research methods (QRM) are adopted in higher education in other parts of the world. Additionally, I was also eager to learn from other researchers and lecturers and get inspiration to apply the QRM methods and techniques at NRC.
Throughout the training, I discovered that there are several simple yet powerful tools we can employ to integrate QRM into our teaching and research practices. For instance, utilising Facebook and Twitter data which was novel and intriguing concept that I found particularly interesting. During the time spent in Ljubljana, we also explored the idea that qualitative research can extend beyond traditional methods and include for example observation of our surroundings. This insight has been incredibly valuable and has equipped me with a fresh perspective on conducting qualitative research.
I learned that there are very simple tools that we can use to include QRM in our teaching and research. For example, using Facebook and twitter data, which was quite new and interesting for me. In Ljubljana, we learned qualitative research can also be conducted by observing and looking around, so we learned some very useful insights.
Throughout the training, various qualitative research methodologies and techniques were covered. Which specific methods or techniques did you find most valuable or applicable to your research interests?
Aaditya: During our visit to the Meertens Institute, we attended a lecture that focused on utilizing APIs for extracting social media data. It was eye-opening to realize that platforms like Facebook and Twitter hold valuable qualitative data, which we often overlook. In Ljubljana, we were also introduced to other software, including Orange, for analysing such data. I attempted to implement this knowledge in our specific context, but I encountered challenges because I felt that I lacked sufficient ‘practical’ training in this particular field. As a result, I wasn’t able to fully leverage the potential of these tools. However, this experience has made me recognise the importance of further learning and familiarizing myself with these technologies. By gaining more expertise and ownership of these tools, I believe we can effectively harness the power of social media data for our research.
Overall, being aware of the existence and capabilities of such software and APIs is incredibly valuable. It opens up new possibilities and avenues for qualitative research, making it a significant aspect to consider in our future endeavors.
Were there any challenges you faced during the training? How did you overcome these challenges?
Aaditya: The challenges I encountered during the training were not related to the program itself, but rather, they were due to my illness, which caused me to miss a few of the sessions. One specific area that I regret not having been able to attend more attentively includes the disclosure analysis, which was facilitated by prof. dr. Sierk Ybema. Unfortunately, my illness hindered my ability to fully engage and comprehend the content during that part of the training.
Coming from a place where obtaining data is complex and requires significant effort, I can empathize with my students’ struggles in the same regard. Data collection through surveys becomes especially challenging as people are reluctant to open up and participate. The lack of time and willingness to assist researchers poses a significant obstacle, and students often feel like their research efforts are not taken seriously. Whenever my students face this issue, I make it a point to mentor and guide them. However, it remains a challenge to gain access and cooperation from potential data sources. Considering these challenges, learning to collect data from alternative sources, as I experienced during the training, has proven to be immensely valuable. The tools and techniques I learned during the training have opened up new possibilities for data collection, which can significantly enhance my research endeavors and support my students in their projects.
Although I come from a quantitative background, I found the exploration of QRM to be refreshing and enlightening. Despite the challenges I faced due to my illness, I very much enjoyed the learning experience and look forward to incorporating these valuable skills into my research and teaching practices.
How has your perspective on QRM changed after your involvement in the HAPPY project, and what specific aspects of QRM did you find more accessible and versatile than you initially thought?
Aaditya: Before my involvement in the HAPPY project, QRM seemed like a distant and challenging concept to me. I held the misconception that it involved extensive writing and numerous interviews. However, my perspective shifted entirely during the project, as I discovered that QRM is more accessible and versatile than I had imagined. The HAPPY project exposed me to various QRM techniques that are not solely about writing or lengthy interviews. I learned that understanding how rituals are conducted presently and historically, as well as gaining insights into people’s perspectives, opens new doors to explore complex issues. This shift from solely relying on tables and numbers to embracing qualitative approaches has been transformative. Even something as simple as drawing a picture can be utilized to conduct qualitative research, and I am eager to explore these diverse techniques further.
One exciting research venture that Kinley and I embarked upon during the first ToT was our study on Annual ritual research. We meticulously crafted the proposal during that session and successfully collected data. We even had the opportunity to present our findings during the subsequent ToT. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic hindered our progress, and we were unable to complete the project as planned.
Despite this setback, my newfound understanding and enthusiasm for QRM have motivated me to continue our research efforts once conditions permit.
What were some of the highlights of the training that enriched your learning experience and understanding of research methods?
Aaditya: The training provided an excellent opportunity to learn from other participants. Engaging with others enriched my understanding of various subjects, thanks to the valuable contributions made by some participants. One individual who left a significant impact on me was Mr. Dendup, the dean of Sherubtse college, whose profound knowledge about research inspired me to learn more. He provided valuable guidance on conducting interviews, which has enhanced my understanding of this research aspect. Kinley from RTC showed me how to develop a well-written proposal and deliver an effective presentation.
Learning from experts at both VU Amsterdam and the University of Ljubljana was a fascinating experience. During our time in Ljubljana, Rajko took us on a silent walk, which proved to be a unique and enlightening way of experiencing and gathering data through sounds, observations, and feelings. It was truly eye-opening and added another dimension to our understanding of research methods. In Amsterdam, the activity of telling a story using origami was both fun and engaging and it left a lasting impression on me. Now, I am highly motivated to share what I have learned with my students.
