WORKING GROUP 2 – Methodological challenges in measuring values

Working Group 2 within the COST Action VISTA focuses on advancing the methodological foundations of values research through the evaluation, development, and harmonisation of measurement tools. Its main objective is to assess the adequacy of existing instruments for measuring values, identifying conceptual gaps, biases, and contextual limitations, and examining their adaptability across diverse cultural, social, and political settings. Building on this assessment, WG2 works on refining and developing robust instruments, improving surveys and psychometric scales to ensure greater reliability and validity. Particular attention is given to mixed-method approaches that combine qualitative and quantitative techniques, as well as to the use of vignette surveys. The group also promotes harmonisation of different measures to ensure comparability across datasets and support high-quality cross-national and longitudinal research on value change. The group's planned activities include reviewing measurement tools, creating a toolkit, organising webinars on methodological challenges, preparing materials for summer schools with other Working Groups, and promoting knowledge exchange on measuring values in times of crisis.

WG2 brings together researchers from over 20 countries, including Inclusiveness Target Countries, representing a wide range of scientific backgrounds. These include, among others, psychology, sociology, economics, computer science, as well as expertise in research methodology and statistics, alongside other relevant disciplines. This interdisciplinary and international composition strengthens the methodological infrastructure of contemporary values research.