ABSTRACT
Digital Methods for Social Justice is an introductory text for those interested in doing research online for the first time, or those who are looking to examine their digital research spaces more closely. This chapter provides a set of essential considerations for all digitally-mediated inquiry, including how we use technology and who designed it, the techno-social elements of digital inquiry, and knowing the chosen research space. With each consideration framed by questions researchers can ask themselves as they plan and evaluate research projects, readers should develop an understanding of the underlying elements that affect all digital research. With these essential considerations in mind, data collection and analysis are discussed using one researcher’s experience as an example for readers. The chapter closes with discussion about the unique social justice and ethical elements of doing digitally-mediated research, and how researchers might consider, work through, and leverage these items for robust, trustworthy, and socially just research.
