A Narrative on Using Vignettes: Its Advantages and Drawbacks

Abstract

Background & aim: In some situations in quantitative or qualitative research, complementary tools would be of great help in data collection. Vignette technique is a data collection tool, which has been used for over 50 years in different disciplines including health sciences. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of information regarding this method. With this background in mind, the present review aimed to provide thorough information about the vignette technique. Methods: This was a narrative review conducted through searching of databases of ISI Web of Science (65), PubMed (27), Scopus (24), CINAHL (110), ProQuest (23), ERIC (44) as well as Science Direct (123) using keywords including “vignette”, “qualitative research”, “quantitative research”, and "research” from their inception to September, 2018 to assess those studies regarding different aspects of vignettes. Out of 416 documents, a number of 105 books and articles were reviewed regarding the different aspects of the vignettes. No language restrictions were imposed. Results: Vignettes are used in different forms including text, illustrations, images, videotape and cartoons, computer-based data, and music as an elicitation tool to provide supplementary and complementary data during a research process. Using this technique, the researcher can collect some data which is not accessible through other sources. At the same time, the researchers should be cautious about its accurate design and validity to get more realistic data. Conclusion: Vignettes as an effective tool can be employed in both quantitative and qualitative research to collect more diverse and thorough data, particularly, in cross-cultural research.