Dagbokstudier

Dagbokstudier, also known as diary studies or journal studies, are a qualitative research method where participants maintain a diary or journal over a period of time to record their experiences, thoughts, and behaviors related to a specific topic or phenomenon. This method is often employed in fields such as human-computer interaction, psychology, sociology, and health research to gain in-depth insights into user behavior, daily routines, emotional responses, or the progression of a condition.

Participants are typically provided with specific instructions on what to record, how often, and the format of the diary. This can range from simple written entries to more complex multimedia recordings. The duration of a dagbokstudie can vary significantly, from a few days to several months, depending on the research question. The data collected offers a rich, longitudinal perspective that can capture nuances often missed in cross-sectional studies or single interviews. Researchers analyze the diary entries for recurring themes, patterns, outliers, and shifts in behavior or perception. The method's strength lies in its ability to capture real-world, context-specific data as it occurs, minimizing recall bias. However, it can be demanding for participants, and researchers must ensure clear guidance and support to maintain engagement and data quality.