Whose Um Voice is it Anyway? Leveraging “Thick Transcription” to Promote Inclusion in Qualitative Research Through Transcript Alignment

Abstract

There is an increasing expectation to demonstrate research equity awareness which charges researchers with the responsibility to methodologically attend to issues of ethical and equitable inclusion in qualitative research. While many strategies toward this end have made strides in improving research inclusion in terms of enhancing inclusive participation in research, little evidence is available to guide researchers in promoting inclusive representation in research. We examine the conceptual and practical relevance of transcription for addressing inclusive representation in qualitative research through the introduction of “transcript alignment” as an alternative to transcript cleaning, transcript checking and reviewing transcripts for verbatim accuracy. Practically, transcript alignment addresses seven common pitfalls of axio-analytic neutrality that impact inclusive representation: missing data, mistaking data, tidying data, overlooking data, shrinking data, sanitizing data, and removing data. Integrating transcript alignment into their practice, qualitative researchers can reaffirm the naturalistic tenet of “investigator as instrument,” generate “thick transcription,” and ultimately carry forward an ethos of participant inclusion throughout data analysis and presentation activities. Continued assessment and refinement of the practical application of the concept of transcript alignment has potential to enhance ethical and inclusive research conduct across all phases of the research process.