Week 6: Handling qualitative data

What are common issues in poor data management?

Lack of systematic records, unclear file names, scattered consent forms, and incomplete transcriptions.

Give some examples of good data management

• Systematic record of pps and interviews: each individual file clearly states which pp it is, which interviewer, time and day etc

• Secure storage of audio and video data

• Digital file names are clear

• Research paperwork is filed systematically

• Appropriate transcription protocol

What is the purpose of transcription in qualitative research?

To convert recordings of interviews into written form for analysis.

• Provides the researcher with something tangible they can analys

• Allows verification of analytical claims (Jenks, 2011)

What does Jeffersonian transcription include?

Detailed elements like pauses, tone of voice, and non-verbal activity.

e.g.

• time gaps

• micropauses

• non-verbal activity, e.g. coughs

• laughter

What is the difference between deductive and inductive coding? What are these processes also referred to as?

Deductive coding is driven by pre-determined questions. (Top down/ a priori)

Inductive coding emerges from the data itself. (Bottom up/emergent)

What are codes in qualitative data analysis?

Labels or tags associated with extracts of data to categorise and interpret text.

How can themes be defined in qualitative research?

Groups of coded data that represent similar patterns or concepts within the dataset.

What is the role of CAQDAS in qualitative research? (Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software)

It helps organise, manage, and analyse large qualitative datasets.

What is the importance of precise transcription?

It ensures maximum exactness for linguistic analysis and data interpretation.

What are some transcription aids mentioned?

Transcription services, transcription machines, and pedals.

What is a common limitation of coding in qualitative research?

It can oversimplify meaning or lose context if rushed or poorly organised.

What is the significance of maintaining analytical notes?

It helps maintain transparency and contributes to the audit trail in research.

What does the term 'verbatim transcription' mean?

Transcribing as much as required by the research question, excluding irrelevant factors.

• Only writing what is necessary to the research question

• Can exclude irrelevant factors

• Line numbers are sometimes inserted

What is the role of themes in qualitative data analysis?

They help to identify patterns and organise coded data into meaningful categories.

What are some examples of codes that can be identified in qualitative data?

Themes, topics, concepts, terms, phrases, and key words.

What is meant by 'coding frame' in qualitative research?

A reference guide that develops as you code successive transcripts.

What does the term 'rich data' refer to?

Data that provides depth and detail, enhancing the quality of findings.

What is the impact of poorly recorded interviews on transcription?

They take longer to transcribe and may lead to inaccuracies.

What is the purpose of coding in qualitative research?

To categorise text and develop theory based on participant data.

How does the researcher's interpretive skill affect qualitative analysis?

It influences the organisation of codes into themes and the overall analysis.

What is the function of a coding label?

To capture a segment of data for analysis and interpretation.

What are some examples of Jefferson transcription symbols?

Time gaps, micropauses, overlapping speech, and tone indications.

What is 'thematic analysis' in qualitative research?

A method that organises codes into themes based on patterns in the data.

What should researchers look for when coding qualitative data?

Themes, emotions, attitudes, and what participants are saying.

What are some limitations of coding

• Can oversimplify meaning or lose context if rushed or poorly organised

• Time-consuming process

• → Keeping analytical notes helps maintain transparency and contributes to the audit trail