Narrative Smoothing and Constructing in the Wild: Navigating the Space of Co-Constructing Narratives for Analysis

• In Event: 53.081 - Roundtable Session 21
  In Roundtable Session: 53.081-9 - Tensions and Wonders About Narrative Inquiry Methodology

Abstract

This methodology paper introduces a collective, team-based approach to constructing narratives in narrative research. The characteristics of this team ranging from novice to expert experiences in the field of qualitative research created a unique opportunity to explore co-construction of narratives. The team analyzed 22 narrative interview transcripts through the processes of identifying critical evens, narrative smoothing and creating plot outlines. Because of the team’s focused and open-dialogues surrounding the scope of identification of critical events, narrative smoothing, and effective data sharing processes and tools the team will now be able to easily onboard new research team members and to work with new data sets.

Authors

• Brooke Coley, National Science Foundation

• Audrey R Boklage, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College Arizona State University

• Nadia Kellam, Arizona State University