Spring Methods

The methods below constitute our primary ways we conducted field research in the Spring Semester.

Contextual Inquiry

Contextual Inquiries contain elements of both interviews and observation, and combine the strengths of both. For our contextual inquiries, we visited therapists at their offices to see their work environments. Observing individuals in their regular workspaces provided insights and opportunities otherwise lost.

Directed Storytelling

This method often begins with the prompt, “Tell me about the last time you...” Our participants recounted real-life scenarios, helping our team gain empathy for them, their patients, and the way Specialized Family Therapy works.

Activity Mapping

Activity Mapping uses a chart in which a person places their activities on a grid based on how often they complete the activity and how much they enjoy it. Since it is not possible to physically observe every aspect of a therapist’s job ,the activity map allows the therapist to give us a glimpse into their world to better understand their schedule.