Qualitative wayfinding: Dissertation reflections on poststructural analysis of academic library value discourse

Abstract

Qualitative research is flexible and allows the researcher to deeply engage with the context and nuance of their data. However, for many qualitative methodologies and methods, there is little guidance and the researcher can feel lost. The presenter for this session has used the qualitative methodology of poststructural discourse analysis for her dissertation research on “library value” discourse in academic libraries. Foucault (1972) essentially states that the work of poststructural discourse analysis is uncomfortable, and the researcher will not get reassurance or confirmation of success. In this session, the presenter will attest to this experience and will share her journey of wayfinding through a confusing and exciting foray into poststructural methodologies. Using Taguette, Zotero, and Google docs in combination for data analysis, the presenter will also reflect on how our QDA technology can structure our thinking and how to consider these limitations. Additionally, she will share her thought process on using pseudonyms and what considerations should be wrapped up within insider expertise for studying marginalized professional fields.