Enhancing Rigor, Quality, and Patient Engagement in Qualitative Research: A Step-By-Step Guide to Applying Reflexive...

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methods
• Participatory Action Research
• Health Sciences Research

Background:

• Experience-based co-design (EBCD) is a flexible participatory method, but its non-prescriptive nature poses challenges for data analysis, especially for novice researchers.
• Limited published details on EBCD adaptation and analysis methods hinder the development of methodological rigor.
• There is a need for clear guidance on applying specific analytical techniques within the EBCD framework.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a detailed, step-by-step guide for applying reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) to experience-based co-design (EBCD) research.
• To address the gap in literature concerning the methodological processes and decision-making involved in adapting EBCD.
• To enhance the rigor and transparency of EBCD studies through a practical analytical approach.

Main Methods:

• Presents a case example illustrating the application of reflexive thematic analysis within an EBCD study.
• Offers a step-by-step guide for conducting RTA in EBCD, emphasizing reflexivity and participant involvement.
• Discusses the strengths and challenges of integrating RTA into the EBCD methodology.

Main Results:

• Demonstrates a practical framework for applying RTA to EBCD data, enhancing analytical depth.
• Highlights the importance of reflexivity in interpreting participant experiences within co-design research.
• Identifies opportunities for increased participant engagement throughout the analysis process.

Conclusions:

• Reflexive thematic analysis offers a robust method for analyzing EBCD data, addressing current methodological gaps.
• This approach can improve the rigor, transparency, and depth of findings in experience-based co-design studies.
• The provided guide supports researchers in effectively adapting and applying EBCD with a focus on rigorous analysis.