Introducing and discussing the virtual special issue on using Q methodology in higher education

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedro.2023.100301
• Publication Date: 2023-11-13T12:18:07Z
• Authors: Adrian Lundberg; Renske Ria de Leeuw
• Keywords: Pedagogical applications; 03 medical and health sciences; 330; 370; Higher education; Educational Sciences; Subjectivity; Theory and practice of education; 0305 other medical science; Utbildningsvetenskap; Q methodology; LB5-3640

This is the editorial paper for the virtual special issue “Using Q methodology in higher education: Opportunities and challenges”, consisting of nine original research studies from different international contexts. In addition to presenting novel findings, contributors were invited to discuss the following two questions at the center of the special issue call: In what sense has Q methodology served as a fitting approach to investigate subjectivity in higher education? What methodological opportunities and challenges arise with Q methodology in higher education settings? This editorial provides an overview and discussion of the various justifications mentioned for Q methodology. Furthermore, it collates the opportunities and challenges contributors discuss in relation to their studies using this almost 90-year-old methodological approach. The editorial paper concludes with recommendations for future Q methodological studies in higher education and beyond.