ABSTRACT
The introduction sets out some of the foundations, key considerations and indeed challenges of diary research. This chapter situates diary research in the contemporary context of social sciences research, including the popularity of diaries in periods and contexts where face-to-face research is difficult. Acknowledging the complexity of the method and the contributions of previous guides to diary research, the chapter includes a section which briefly introduces key facets of the method. The introduction chapter also includes challenges of both conducting and participating in diary studies, as well as the benefits. Finally a summary is included of each part of the book and the chapters included within each part. The chapter concludes with reflections on the need for a book of this kind, and the key aims of the book – to facilitate both more widespread uptake of diary research and more methodologically rigorous engagement with the method.
