Researching with children using Skype interviews and drawings: methodological and ethical issues explored

Abstract

<jats:p> This article explores methodological and ethical issues of researching with children, drawing on a project exploring children’s perceptions of having a mother studying in Higher Education. While most prior research concentrates on a mother’s view of her children, this article uniquely focuses on children’s views on their mother. From analysis of the data and reflections on the research experience, the following themes emerged, the benefits and challenges of using drawing or Skype as a research method and ethical issues when working with children. Reflecting a view of children as competent and knowledgeable participants within research, I argue that children should be given opportunities to discuss a range of topics that concern them and advocate doing research ‘with’ rather than ‘on’ children. Throughout this article, the children’s and mothers’ voices are interjected to provide a narrative offering insights into family life from a child’s perspective thus revealing the impact of this research on the mother. </jats:p>