LEARNS: A creative approach to analysing and representing narrative data incorporating photo-elicitation techniques

Wendy Marsh; Jen Leamon; Ann Robinson; Jill Shawe

doi:10.1177/1744987117750218

LEARNS: A creative approach to analysing and representing narrative data incorporating photo-elicitation techniques

J Res Nurs. 2018 Jun;23(4):334-343. doi: 10.1177/1744987117750218. Epub 2018 Feb 15.

Authors

Wendy Marsh¹, Jen Leamon², Ann Robinson³, Jill Shawe⁴

Affiliations

¹ Consultant Midwife, University Hospital Southampton, UK.
² Senior Lecturer, School of Health and Social Care, Bournemouth University, UK.
³ Senior Teaching Fellow in Midwifery, University of Surrey, UK.
⁴ Director of IHC and Professor in Women's Health, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, University of Plymouth, UK.

Abstract

Background: Diversity exists in how storied data gathered in narrative inquiry is analysed and represented, more so when there is a need to combine multiple data collection methods, including photographs.

Aim: This paper discusses the use of an analytical framework entitled LEARNS developed as part of a PhD study that has potential to fill this gap.

Results: The step-by-step framework presented in this paper was developed in order to analyse the data collected in this research study and gives understanding and insight into the experience of mothers whose babies are removed at birth. The LEARNS framework provides transparency and credibility; it also negates the need to restrict findings to broad themes via content/thematic analysis.

Conclusions: LEARNS could offer other researchers a reliable framework to use for future social science research.

Keywords: analysis; framework; inquiry; narrative; photo-elicitation.