The Iterative Survey Adaptation of The Imitation Game: A survey approach to defining group identity through analysis of distinctiveness

Abstract

This article reports on an original adaptation of the Imitation Game into survey form; the Iterative Survey. Like the original Game, the Iterative Survey can capture the ‘groupishness’ of social groups through analysis of distinctiveness but it can be implemented more affordably and conveniently than the Game making it more useful for researchers with limited resources. This paper outlines the origins of this novel method, and its implementation is illustrated using an exploration of maths anxiety in primary school teachers in Wales. The method privileges participant voices and its asynchronous nature may allow access to groups that would be difficult to recruit for a standard Imitation Game. The method’s rigour and ability to capture ‘groupishness’ are tentatively evaluated. The social scientific value of this novel survey adaptation is discussed with reference to wider social science. The article ends with a discussion of the need for further development of the method.