Utilising new media technology: Web-based diaries for data collection with adult participants with autistic spectrum disorder

Utilising emergent media technology for data collection is rapidly advancing. As the technology continues to develop, there is increasing need to understand the practicalities, challenges, and opportunities that it holds for social and business research methods. This chapter presents a practical guide to using one form of new media technology, Web-based diaries, and, in doing so, provides a base on which research practitioners, from Masters students to professors, can build similar empirical research projects. Rationale for choosing this "novel" data collection tool is contextualised in a case study with university student participants with autistic spectrum disorder that explores disability support services. Sampling, ethics, and design are set out, with a step-by-step guide to the diary schedules' construction. Materials and procedures are supported by screenshots to aid readers' experience of the Web-based diary interface and critical description of its use. The challenges and opportunities this technique offers are subsequently explored.