by Tu Thanh Ngo (Frank Tu)

Qualitative researchers always remind us to “expect the unexpected” in the field. However, the coronavirus pandemic is probably beyond our wildest imagination. Currently, I am working in a research group called “Urban-rural migration and rural revitalization in Japan”. As out-migrant of young people from rural to urban areas is argued to be one of the root causes of the myriad rural problems [1], my individual tasks and PhD project focus on Japan’s revitalization policies through migration, across four different municipalities in Kyūshū, Specifically, I want to analyze the two policies that concern tourism and youth mobility [2].

Ironically, the biggest enemy for a young student hoping to travel to Japan to research migration-based policies is the immobility caused by Covid-19. Having gone to high school in Kyūshū, the prospect of going back and doing fieldwork there is what I most look forward to. Besides, it is also crucial to personally witness the impact of revitalization policies for policy analysis. Although the original plan is to start doing fieldwork in Japan this October, the anxieties cast by the pandemic are multifold: How to access the field when Japan still has not allowed new visa applications? How to conduct qualitative interviews with strangers when we are still sometimes wary of a cough in the metro? How to stay motivated if I cannot work in my favorite environments, be it in the library, or sometimes, at the airport…?

That said, I am aware that immobility calls for flexibility, and anxiety nurtures positivity. Under the current situation, I have been reaching out to friends in Kyūshū via social networks to “digitally” access the field and prepare for the fieldwork. This is a greatly motivating activity, thanks to both the excitement when I get introduced to a fitting informant, and the jubilation gained from staying in touch with my “old” friends. Besides, I also miss working in the library, where I used to get lots of inspiration from studying with friends until dark. Yet, on a bright note, the university’s digital library has been useful, allowing me to research rural development theories in the park when the weather permits. Most importantly, the regular virtual meetings with my project colleagues are highly encouraging, as we can share our new findings and get “hyped up” over an interesting revitalization scheme. The meetings also help me reorganize my fuzzy thoughts before discussing with my colleagues. Another activity that keeps me motivated is practicing a research method – “Qualitative Comparative Analysis” (QCA), by taking online courses and reading textbooks. Doing short exercises gives me a sense of progress, which balances the often-frustrating feeling that the more I read the less I know.

In the coming months until October, I will collect and analyse data regarding the two chosen schemes based on six dimensions: Effectiveness, Unintended effects, Equity, Cost, Feasibility, and Acceptability. To do so, I will look at official documents issued by the four municipalities and the central government, as well as news articles or blog posts. If possible, I will also conduct virtual interviews with municipal officials.

While there is no telling as to when the pandemic will end, and matters such as visa or vaccines are beyond my control. what I can do is to remain physically and mentally healthy by exercising (and/or having a glass of wine) everyday, meeting friends in compliance with the law. Most importantly, I try to maintain my positivity, and hopefully… sense of humor.