AAA Template Method Name

Qualities

Purpose

Understand how participants organize information

This method is useful when time is short for each participant and you have some understanding of existing challenges or problem space. 

Qualities

Mode of InquiryInquiry: Convergent

(Sensemaking)

Common UsageUsage: Challenge

Seeking

Depth of Understanding Gained Gained: Shallow

Participant EngagementEngagement: Synchronous  

Researcher EngagementEngagement: 1:1

SettingSetting: In-person or Virtual

Duration 

Preparation:5+ 2minutes hours–8 weeks (depending on accessibility and legal regulations) 

Activity: 4 hours–4 weeks (depending on number and availability of interviewees and researchers)

Analysis: 2 hours–4 weeks (depending on amount of data) cards

PhysicalTool requirements

Notebook, photoCards, camera, voice recorder, video camera, legal agreements (consent and/or confidentiality agreement) Energy level Highrecorder

Researchers/Facilitators

Minimum 1 (a better approach is to have teams of 2–3 researchers)

Participants

Minimum 5 (but aim for at least 20 per group)1

Expected output

Text (transcripts, field notes), audio recordings, photos, videos, artifacts

 

Instructions

Prep

Identify what you want to understand from the method. Identify which elements to present to participants on cards. Create the cards.

Execute

Give the participant the set of cards. Explain what you are looking for them to do. Request that the participant think aloud during the session to understand the thought process behind their categorizations. If the participant struggles with thinking aloud, prompt them regularly.

Document

Take photos of the completed card sort. Take notes or record audio of the participant working through their sort process.

External Resources

How to Conduct An Effective Card Sort: A Comprehensive Guide

Card Sorting: The Ultimate Guide