Using Self-Determination Theory in Participant Selection for Narrative Inquiry: A Methodology for the Participant-Selection Variant of an Explanatory Sequential Design

• In Event: Roundtable Session 101
  In Roundtable Session: Practical Applications of Mixed-Methods Research

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) in a mixed methods design to enable a maximum variation sampling strategy for a narrative inquiry. The methodology for this participant-selection variant of an explanatory sequential design (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2011) is described. The two phased approach uses SDT and cluster analysis in the first quantitative phase, to establish groups of participants. Profiles of these groups subsequently inform the second phase narrative inquiry and provide the ability to use maximum variation sampling. This strategy in turn ensures a divergent set of experiences for the narrative inquiry. The profiles created often have potential for immediate application in practice. An example of this methodology in use is provided from an ongoing study.

Author

• Susan Glassett Farrelly, University of California - San Diego