Qualitative Data Analysis & Interpretation

In the data analysis process, qualitative researchers construct _____________

by looking out for ____________ & ___________.

• Results, Data, Causality

• Conclusions, Coding, Answers

• Meaning, Patterns, Themes

Qualitative Data Analysis is often

• Quick and easy

• Straightforward and obvious

• A Nuanced Struggle

• A Multistage Process

• Pointless and frustrating

After collecting data in the field, the FIRST stages of Qualitative Data Analysis include:

• Making Electronic Copies of Data Collected

• Organizing, Categorizing, and Classifying Data

• Drawing Interpretations of Data Quickly

• Making Diagrams of Patterns, Categories, & Concepts

In order to distill a high volume of qualitative data (questionnaires, recorded interviews, etc.) into a useful data set, researchers ________ the data, in which they mark or reference specific words/sentences/themes.

• Categorize

• Code

• Classify

• Decode

• Organize

Getting to know your data set in depth

• is tedious, time-consuming, and repetitious

• is an unnecessary part of doing qualitative research

• involves looking over the data once or twice

• is essential for making meaningful interpretations of data

What is involved on the researcher's part in interpreting data effectively?

• Point the way for future research to build upon their findings

• Always making concrete conclusions about the data

• Identifying and addressing their own biases in collecting and interpreting data

• Consulting with colleagues or critical friends

What question/s does a qualitative researcher need to ask themselves?

• Did this data come from direct observation or hearsay?

• How reliable are those providing the data?

• How does the organizational structure or context influence the results?

• What are the motivations of those providing the data?

• What is the point of all this?