Lessons learned in the field: conducting qualitative research with Bangladeshi immigrant communities in Lisbon, Brussels and Boston

Abstract

PurposeThis article presents fieldwork perspectives gained from conducting qualitative research among Bangladeshi immigrant communities in Lisbon (Portugal), Boston (Massachusetts – USA) and Brussels (Belgium). This discussion will primarily benefit those who conduct, or are interested in, undertaking qualitative research with Bangladeshi immigrants, one of the largest immigrant communities represented globally.Design/methodology/approachThe author conducted 32 semi-structured interviews using a qualitative descriptive approach.FindingsThe author discusses and demonstrates effective strategies to acquire meaningful insights from fieldwork while interviewing Bangladeshi immigrants. Though maintaining standard criteria for producing credible qualitative research is crucial, the adoption of a flexible and dynamic approach is also necessary. The article highlights versatile approaches taken in the following four areas: (1) establishing community presence, (2) managing informed consent, (3) adjusting research instruments and protocols, and (4) dealing with unexpected situations during fieldwork. Moreover, these elements are examined within the context of navigating the role and positionality of the researcher.Research limitations/implicationsThe generalizability of these techniques is limited to this study, but similar issues in conducting qualitative research with Bangladeshi communities and other immigrant groups can be found.Originality/valueThis paper addresses a gap in the discussion of fieldwork strategies for conducting qualitative research with Bangladeshi immigrant communities. Practical knowledge for researchers facilitating qualitative research with this group is relatively scarce despite the growing presence of these communities globally.