Interpretive description as a qualitative research framework in speech-language pathology: A scoping review

Interpretive description is a constructivist, flexible, qualitative research approach used to generate knowledge to inform practice in applied disciplines. Despite potential value for the speech-language pathology profession, there has been limited discussion of interpretive description in our field to date. The purpose of this scoping review was to describe how interpretive description has been used in speech-language pathology research. We asked: a) How and to what extent has interpretive description been used as a methodological framework for primary research in the field of SLP and b) what features of interpretive description are most salient in the speech-language pathology studies that have used interpretive description to date?

Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) methodological framework for scoping reviews was used. In May 2023, we searched five databases for peer-reviewed, primary research publications that reported using ID, were specific to speech-language pathology, and were written in English. Two researchers independently reviewed articles for inclusion. A third researcher provided input when consensus could not be reached.

Nineteen articles met criteria. Data were extracted regarding article characteristics including use of theory, types of findings, clinical applicability, and description of disciplinary epistemology.

Interpretive description is an emerging methodological framework in speech-language pathology research. Advantages and challenges of interpretive description for speech-language pathology are discussed.