TECHNIQUES

Data doodles

Doodles are simple drawings that represent our inner worlds. They express our daydreams, our ideas and all the random thoughts that cross our minds. Have you ever thought of doodling your data? This is a simple technique to help us reflect about and document our experiences in the field in a unique way.

Written by

Denisse Albornoz

Edited by

Gioel Gioacchino

Developed by

Stages:Data Analysis* Research Communication

Many moons ago, when I was writing my undergraduate thesis, I did not know what to do with all the data I had collected in the field. I had long pages with scribbles about my interviews, experiences and random notes I had taken while I was conducting my research. However, that piece of paper full of notes felt a bit foreign and I felt the need to bring my data back to life. So I sat down, grabbed a bunch of colours and papers and started turning my notes into doodles. As I was drawing the different scenarios and characters I had encountered in the field, I did not only revisit memories I seemed to have forgotten, but also did a fair bit of reflection about what those memories meant to me, and how they could help me answer my research questions.

What are the benefits of using this technique?

It will help you document and communicate your data collection process;
It will help you reflect on how identity and positionality (age, gender, ethnicity, nationality, etc.) influence your interpretation of the data;
It will help you make connections between abstract ideas, thoughts, emotions, images, and lived experiences in your community;
It will allow you to find interesting, appealing and creative ways to share your ideas with others.

What are the challenges of using this technique?

Drawing and storytelling can be challenging – If you do not feel comfortable with drawing, this technique may prove frustrating. However, keep in mind it is a good opportunity for reflection. Don’t worry about being a great artist! Were some ideas harder to illustrate than others? Why? What can I do to explain this idea more clearly?
It can be time consuming – Make sure you set time aside for this activity. Unless you are using comics to present your research in public, there is no need to be a perfectionist. This is an exercise for you to reflect on how you imagine yourself, the community you are working in and your relationship with others.

You can use this to visualize interviews, survey, field notes, etc. I have used it to visualize how I imagine conversations with people I have not met – like the authors of books, articles and films that inspire me. I find it is a great way to connect with their ideas and reflect about how to communicate them.

Tips and Traps:

Do this away from your electronic devices (computer, phone, etc).
Let your creativity flow! If you decide you want to tweak your original plan, go for it! It’s part of figuring out your process.
Have fun! This is not about making the perfect comic book, but about getting in touch with your creativity and your community.