Q Methodology: A promising method to investigate mindsets

Mindsets which are beliefs and fundamental perceptions about our life as well as how we cope with challenges in life play a pivotal role in our learning and development. These subjective views determine our mental attitudes and behavior. Mindsets, therefore, have attracted considerable attention from scholars in different fields. In education, mindsets have been investigated using different research instruments ranging from questionnaires, interviews, and other self-report methods. However, the subjective and complex nature of individuals’ mindsets are major challenges in mindset research. In this paper, we proposed the use of Q instruments as a promising tool for dealing with these challenges. Q procedures consist of a methodical design of Q statements, Q grid, in-depth interviews with participants, and the Q inverted factor analysis technique. This paper illustrates how the method can be employed to effectively to reveal participants’ mindsets. Principles, detailed procedures, and applications to research in teacher education are also discussed.