Q-sort methodology
Aim
The Q-sort or "Question-sort", is based on a list of questions.Its objective is to bring out the representations that a group has of a given concept. It allows them to be expressed and confronted. It aims to generate a demand for further study by allowing debate and exchange.
It consists of a list of 15-20 items dealing with a concept. These items are always vague, in order to stimulate critical thinking and to clarify the representations.
The process is based on 3 steps:
1. Each person reflects individually on the list of proposed items. He or she must identify 3 (to 5) that seem true and 3 (to 5) that seem false. This first step usually takes 10 minutes.
2. People then meet in groups of 3 to 5, to choose 3 (to 5) items that seem unanimously true, and 3 (to 5) that seem unanimously false. They also note the points of disagreement. This should be a long time, about 30 minutes. It is a time to confront the representations and build an argument.
3. Each group presents its results to all the participants. The facilitator writes down in three columns: the true, false and divergent items. The facilitator can then launch a debate and lead to clarify the points of convergence and divergence. (Duration: about 30 minutes).
We give you an example of Q-sort related to the concept of animal wefare education.
1. Teaching animal welfare means providing objective data on the animal's needs.
2. In vocational training, we need to teach good practices about animal welfare
3. Teaching animal welfare means acquiring a scientific model, such as the 5 Freedoms, which is recognized and easy to use.
4. In training courses, it would be necessary to have a specific module on animal welfare
5. In vocational training, we need to teach good practices about animal welfare
6. Teaching animal welfare means acquiring a scientific model, such as the 5 Freedoms, which is recognized and easy to use.
7. You have to start by visiting a slaughterhouse. The students have to face death.
8. It is important to correct any anthropomorphic statements that students may make.
9. Animal welfare education is about learning about animal welfare regulations and enforcing them.
10. Education for animal welfare implies education in ethics.
11. Comments by students that would lead to devaluing the animal's suffering are unacceptable
12. Students from the urban world have an overly sensitive and emotional view of animals.
13. The student must be persuaded to follow practices that respect the animal's welfare.
14. Students generally find the consideration of animal welfare constraining and a waste of time
15. Training programs are well suited to teach animal welfare.