Utilising mood boards as an image elicitation tool in qualitative research

Spawforth-Jones, Simon ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7290-889X (2021) Utilising mood boards as an image elicitation tool in qualitative research. Sociological Research Online. ISSN 1360-7804

Abstract

The use of image elicitation methods has been recognised in qualitative research for some time however, the use of mood boards to prompt participant discussion is currently an under-researched area. This article explores the use of mood boards as a data collection method in qualitative research. Used in design disciplines mood boards allow designers to interpret and communicate complex or abstract aspects of a design brief. In this study I utilise mood boards as being part creative visual method and part image elicitation device. The use of mood boards is explained here in the context of a research project exploring masculinity and men's reflexivity. In this article I consider the benefits of utilising this method in researching reflexivity and gender before offering a critical appraisal of this method and inviting colleagues to explore how mood boards might enhance research projects involving elicitation.

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