Method summary: how it all happened

It’s all well and good to talk about the research, but how did it all come together? Here is a summary of the method that underpinned my research, and kick-started this site.

The research explores the lives and experiences of young farmers in the Mid North of South Australia, in relation to public policy. It uses qualitative research methods with a case study approach; and the whole lot is underpinned by action research principles.

The research question addressed was: ‘What do the lives of young farmers in the Mid North of South Australia tell us about public policy?’.

The research objectives were:

• to document what is known about young farmers in both Australia and overseas
• to explore the policies that have an impact on young farmers
• to understand what it is like to be a young farmer, by examining young farmers’ lives and experiences
• to explore the influences on young farmers’ health
• to identify and engage with agencies that can assist young farmers with knowledge transfer.

The research sample involved 20 young farmers (16 males and 4 females) from the Mid North of South Australia. They ranged in age from 18-35. The research area included Jamestown, Orroroo, Peterborough, Booleroo Centre, Carrieton, Hallett and Wirrabara regions.

The participants were recruited through local rural businesses, and by word of mouth.  Small advertisements on local notice boards were also used.

This research was repeated in a separate study (May-June 2008) in the Southern Mallee. It used the same methods, though the research sample was larger. It involved 35 participants (28 males and 7 females). One follow-up focus group was held in July 2008.  The research area included Lameroo, Pinnaroo, Parilla and Karoonda regions.

Ethics approval was gained on the 19th March 2007. It was awarded by the Social and Behavioural Research Ethics Committee from Flinders University of South Australia. The project number was 3779. Consent was obtained from young farmers at the commencement of the interview process.

The interview schedule was piloted by two young farmers. These guys provided comprehensive feedback, that resulted in some changes.

The interviews conducted with the young farmers looked at a broad range of areas, relevant to their farming experiences. They were held in July-August 2007. Follow-up focus groups were held in September 2007 and February 2008.

The areas covered during interviews included:

• family and farming history
• economics and business
• education
• working hours
• off-farm work
• stress and isolation
• meaning
• values
• enjoyment and challenges
• health and help-seeking
• globalisation
• environmental issues
• communication
• representation and policy
• the future of farming.

Semi-structured interview questions were asked. The questions were designed to explore the broader social determinants of health.  All interviews were recorded, and kept on compact disc for future reference.

After interviews were transcribed and typed up, the data was analysed. At this point, common themes emerged.  Feedback workshops with young farmers were held (at the farmers’ suggestions), which provided the opportunity to correct any correction researcher bias, and to confirm findings.