Research Methods

Taylor (the researcher) was briefly observing user interactions with the lake, alongside recording water/weather conditions, and making general descriptive written reflections, later analysing the notes at home afterwards. Taylor was often swimming and video recording his experiences with a GoPro while in the water, and a static camera while on the shoreline and jetty, but he was not directly recording user activity.

The swim-along interviews recorded before, during, and after our swim, inviting open-ended questions about our motivations, what we notice about ourselves and around us, including access, water quality, weather conditions, kit, and anything else we wish to share. There was also the option of recording the interview via a GoPro mounted to my tow float. A land-based interview was also offered using an audio dictaphone.

OWS carries some immediate physical risks when exposed to fluctuating temperatures, water quality, weather, and environmental conditions. There was continuous dialogue before, during, and after the swim, and the participants were responsible for their own swim safety. The use of tow floats during the interview were mandatory (Taylor had a spare), but they could choose whatever swim kit they felt most comfortable using. Participant responses were anonymised with a pseudonym (chosen by the participant), and Taylor later analysed the recordings at home.

A Consent Form alongside a Demographics and OWS Experience Survey was completed prior to the swim-along interview.