Opening windows behind closed doors: reflections on working qualitatively during a pandemic

Abstract

The contribution of qualitative evidence in epidemic and pandemic research has been articulated in previous editorials of this journal (Teti et al., 2020) and attention given to the pivotal role of qualitative methods in identifying social responses to COVID-19 (Vindrola-Padros et al., 2020). In addition, we feel it is also timely to explore the concept of “team” during this period and what adaptations pandemic restrictions has brought to how teams organize themselves, interact and the benefits and challenges that this brings. In this editorial, we reflect on our experiences of being part of a team conducting qualitative research during a pandemic, which has affected every aspect of our lives. Something this significant creates an opportunity for new learning. We consider what we have learned during this time and what aspects we can use to inform and enrich us