Key considerations when designing a social media-based diary study

Qualitative data collection conducted on social media platforms is a recent methodological innovation with only a handful of studies exploring this approach. Even fewer explore the potential of social media platforms for conducting diary methods. This article highlights the key considerations a researcher must reflect upon when designing a social media-based diary study focused on everyday lived experience. It argues that due consideration must be afforded to the platform choice, design and structure of the diary, ethical considerations, cultural considerations, open communication, and strategies to improve participant engagement. In so doing, the researcher can enhance the quality of their study and gain better insight into their research topic. This article is based on a research study which explored the everyday lived experiences of 36 UK-based faith vegans, and which utilized private Facebook and WhatsApp groups to obtain topic-focused diary data from participants, such as photos of food, reflections on different experiences and events, and group discussions.