WORKSHOP ON PARTICIPATORY QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS BEGINS AT AL-FARABI KAZAKH NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

On November 10, a two-day research workshop began at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, focusing on the application of participatory qualitative research methods. The workshop is being held as part of the academic collaboration between the Department of Sociology and Social Work, Faculty of Philosophy and Political Science, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, and the Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Professor Gulmira Abdiraiymova, Doctor of Sociological Sciences, Head of the Department of Sociology and Social Work at the Faculty of Philosophy and Political Science, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, plays an important role in the development of this academic collaboration.

The workshop is led by Professor Crystal Kwan, the project leader, and aims to strengthen participants’ research competencies, collaboratively develop the research methodology, refine research questions, and prepare qualitative data collection tools. Particular emphasis is placed on participatory research approaches that actively involve members of the community being studied in the research process.

On the first day, participants discussed the main directions of the research, approaches to formulating research questions, and the application of qualitative methods to explore the social experiences of different population groups. Particular attention was given to recognizing participants’ individual experiences, perspectives, and understandings, as well as creating opportunities for them to express their views openly.

An important part of the programme involved discussing methodological and organizational aspects of the upcoming study, including sample selection, eligibility criteria, and participant recruitment strategies. Participants also explored the possibility of establishing a Youth Community Advisory Board, whose members could contribute to the development of research materials, the discussion of preliminary findings, and the dissemination of research outcomes.

A dedicated session focused on the Photovoice method, which enables research participants to communicate their lived experiences, perspectives, and understandings through photographs, followed by discussions of their meaning. The practical activities addressed the design of photography assignments, the organization of individual interviews and group discussions, and the development of a semi-structured discussion guide for qualitative data collection. Particular attention was given to formulating open-ended research questions that encourage deeper understanding of participants’ experiences without imposing predetermined interpretations.

The workshop also addressed research ethics, confidentiality, informed consent for the use of photographs, and the importance of ensuring participants’ safe involvement in the research process. The interactive format encouraged the exchange of research ideas, collaborative reflection on methodological approaches, and the identification of priorities for subsequent activities.

On November 11, the workshop will continue with practical activities focused on developing a data collection protocol using collage methods, as well as discussions on the allocation of research responsibilities and coordination of future collaborative work.

The workshop contributes to strengthening research collaboration between the Department of Sociology and Social Work at Al-Farabi KazNU and the Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS) at PolyU, advancing qualitative research competencies, and promoting the application of contemporary participatory research methods to the study of important social issues.