Experiencing audio recorded research (EARR): Audio enhancement of qualitative poster presentations

Background: One of the tenets of qualitative research is the emphasis and honoring of the participants' own words as generative of meaning and knowledge; yet it is rare to hear the actual voices of the research participants in public health and other social sciences presentations. Purpose: Test and evaluate the EARR Model to facilitate a multisensory approach to qualitative data dissemination through integrating audio technology into poster presentations. Methods: Using the Contextual Model of Learning framework as a guide, we developed and tested the application of the EARR Model in the professional context of health-related scientific conferences (n=3). Sound clips were accessed by conference participants via cell phone or QR code through an audio guide company. Feedback from conference participants about the technology was evaluated through a brief poll and open-ended comments. Results: Overall, feedback about the use of audio guides was positive. Participants reported that listening to the audio clips enhanced their understanding of the research results and helped them to feel more engaged with the qualitative results. Many conference participants were interested in using the technology to enhance their own research presentations. Discussion: Incorporating audio into public health research dissemination has the potential to immerse conference attendees more fully into the data. The EARR model and audio guide technology will be demonstrated in a real-time interactive session; attendees will be encouraged to try the technology using their mobile devices, and ask questions. A demonstration of the behind-the-scenes aspect of setting up this technology is possible with Internet access.