Abstract:

In recent years, mixed research methods have gradually attracted the attention of scholars in the field of applied linguistics, among which the Q method, as a mixed research method to explore human subjectivity, combines the advantages of quantitative and qualitative methods, and examines subjectivity via objective measures at both holistic and individual levels. However, understanding the application of the Q method in this field is still in its infancy, and there are few relevant research results; empirical Chinese studies are particularly lacking. Therefore, in this study, we employ a systematic review by searching key literature databases in China and overseas and investigating Q methodological studies in applied linguistics. The researchers reviewed the current status of Q methodological research in terms of theoretical perspectives, research topics, as well as data collection and analysis characteristics. We have found that few Q methodological studies have integrated theories, and have a predominant focus on motivational themes, as the research topics encompass motivations, emotions, beliefs, curriculum evaluations, and the like. The data collection and analysis have revealed developmental trends ranging from synchronic to diachronic, intra-group to inter-group, or a combination of intra-group and inter-group. Finally, we propose future directions for Q methodological research based on existing research gaps with the aim of providing new insights for future studies.

Keywords: mixed research methods; Q method; applied linguistics; subjectivity; PRISMA

摘要：

近年来，混合研究方法逐渐受到应用语言学领域学者的关注。其中，Q方法作为一种探讨人类主体性的混合研究方法，融合了量化与质性方法的优势，从整体和个体两个层面出发，以客观手段考察主观本质，逐渐得到该领域专家的认可。然而，学者们对于Q方法的认识仍处于起步阶段，相关研究成果较少，国内实证研究尤其匮乏。因此，本研究采用系统性综述方法，通过对国内外相关重点文献数据库进行检索和筛选，从“理论视角”“研究主题”和“数据搜集与分析特征”3个方面评述Q方法研究现状。研究发现，只有少量Q方法研究注重与理论相结合，且仅有的这些研究多聚焦动机主题；研究主题涉及动机、情感、信念、课程评价等；数据搜集与分析呈现出从共时到历时、从组内向组间或组内组间相结合的发展趋势。最后，本文结合现有研究的不足，指出Q方法研究的未来发展方向，以期为未来研究提供新的思路。

关键词: 混合研究方法, Q方法, 应用语言学, 主体性, PRISMA