Teaching and Learning Reconstructive Research Methods Using Large Language Models in Hybrid Research Workshops?

Theoretical and Empirical Findings

Abstract

Against the background of the increased attention to teaching qualitative methods and the progressing use of artificial intelligence (AI), this article deals with the question of to what extent the teaching of practices of reconstructive methods, especially the documentary method, can be supported using AI. The article begins with differentiating interpretive attitudes, orientations, and stances and the distinction between method knowledge and skills. The importance of research workshops as a site for teaching method skills is highlighted and cognitive science perspectives related to research workshops are discussed. After reconstructing the capabilities of current Large Language Models such as ChatGPT, the article first empirically describes the conventional workflow of qualitative research based on group discussions and then explores how AI integration into these conventional interpretive workflows might play out. The article concludes with a discussion of the potential and challenges of integrating AI into the teaching of reconstructive methods.