Brewer-Deluce, Danielle, Bhanu Sharma, Noori Akhtar-Danesh, Thomas Jackson, & Bruce C. Wainman (2019, May, in press). Beyond average information: How Q-methodology enhances course evaluations in anatomy. Anatomical Sciences Education. 12 pp. (ePub in advance of print) (doi: )
Abstract: Course evaluations can be used for curriculum improvement and have the potential to better the student learning experience. However, because most are based on Likert scales and open-ended feedback, understanding diversity in student opinion and uncovering optimal options for course change and improvement are often difficult. Alternatively, Q-methodology can be used to investigate patterns of thought within a group and may offer greater potential for course reform. This manuscript offers a tutorial-based explanation of the three components of Q-methodology studies (1) survey instrument development, (2) data collection, and (3) analysis and interpretation, then demonstrates, via case study, the use of Q-methodology to evaluate a fourth-year undergraduate pathoanatomy course. The goal of this article is to enable the reader to broadly apply Q-methodology in other courses to gain insight and feedback beyond that offered by traditional Likert scale methods. As demonstrated through the pathoanatomy case study, Q-methodology highlights groups (denoted by factors) of like-minded students that share opinions, preferences, and values. Overall, Q-methodology analyses support course instructors in identifying areas of course strength and improvement in an evidence-based way. This alternative to traditional Likert scales represents a promising solution to ongoing course evaluation limitations.
Danielle Brewer-Deluce <brewerdd@mcmaster.ca> is in the Education Program in Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
