Details for Qualitative Data Analysis

Qualitative data analysis describes and summarises the mass of words generated by interviews or observational data. It allows researchers to seek relationships between various themes that have been identified or relate behaviour or ideas to biographical characteristics of respondents. Implications for policy or practice may be derived from the data, or interpretation sought of puzzling findings from previous studies. Ultimately theory could be developed and tested using advanced analytical techniques.

This resource pack discusses some of the theoretical models within which qualitative data can be analysed, and helps researchers select the most appropriate one for their particular piece of research. The stages involved in qualitative data analysis, as well as coding and developing categories are described, and a discussion of processes that can help ensure rigour is included. Finally some of the practicalities of qualitative analysis are addressed , including the use of computer software programmes.

This resource pack suggests resources as well as supplying a glossary of terms.