Qualitative research and the built environment
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Most people live and work in some form of built environment setting, as not only the buildings but landscaped outdoor environments and even parts of the transport system, count as elements of the built environment. For many people, on an average day, almost all their time will be spent in surroundings influenced by human design (ONS, 2006).
However, it is unusual to stop and think about the feelings inspired by these environments; or, how the technologies and products used everyday influence individual thoughts, feelings and motivations; or, how the individual impacts upon the environment for others. Consciously, it is probably not something often considered, nevertheless, it is widely recognised that cues in the environments in which time is spent have a psychological impact and an emotional influence (Butterworth, 2000).
As well as this, if environments have the power to affect on an emotional level, then this is a factor which needs to be included in all work done in construction, planning and design. This is the component the social research teams add to projects and a large part of this is through qualitative research.
[edit] What is qualitative research?
Qualitative research covers a spectrum of highly useful methods which can add valuable insight to projects and businesses. These methods range from face-to-face interviews to focus groups and workshops.
Qualitative research is initial, exploratory research. Less rigid than quantitative research, it opens up discussions and encourages free speech around topics. This allows the early discovery and inclusion of emotions, opinions and trends.
Critically, it is not just about finding out what people think, but why they think it. Talking through opinions in a ‘free’ space allows true motivations and feelings to be drawn out. This gives more depth to answers than a more rigid, quantitative survey response.
[edit] When should qualitative research be used?
Qualitative methods can be extremely valuable in many situations, including developing new products, designing new spaces or even coming up with marketing initiatives. However, it is important that these methods are used at the right stage of a project and for the right reasons. These research methods should, more often than not, be used at the early stages of a project as a free space for collecting feelings, values and opinions.
Additionally, to get the most out of findings, it is essential that qualitative research is conducted well. It is surprisingly easy to influence respondents by providing them with options or including personal opinion through tone of voice or the phrasing of the questions. There is value in utilising the skills of trained researchers who have learnt to ask questions in an independent way.
This article was created by --BRE Buzz. It based on a post originally published on BRE Buzz in December 2015 written by Helen Davies.
You can see the original article here.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Airtightness of energy efficient buildings.
- Anatomy of low carbon retrofits: evidence from owner-occupied superhomes.
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE National Solar Centre.
- Building Research Establishment BRE.
- Case study.
- Design for deconstruction, BRE modular show house.
- Developing the next generation of cementitious materials.
- Pre-demolition and pre-refurbishment audits.
- Research.
Featured articles and news
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.