

The choice is related to the aim of the study. There are many different approaches to qualitative data analysis, like grounded theory, content analysis or thematic analysis. This depends on the perspective or aims of the research. the analysis starts from a framework, for instance predetermined themes or categories based on a theory or the literature, or the analysis is a mix of an inductive or deductive approach. the analysis starts from the collected data, which successively could lead to the discovery of themes or concepts – or as deductive – i.e. A basic distinction is made between data analysis as inductive – i.e. Data analysis often takes place alongside data collection to allow questions to be refined and new topics to be further explored.ĭifferent types of data analysis can be applied in qualitative research. Qualitative data analyses is also characterized by its cyclical and iterative process. The results are described in descriptive, and possibly in a visual manner, supported with quotes or images from the data. In general, qualitative data analysis does not seek to quantify data. Qualitative data analysis is characterized by its analytical openness, as researchers can develop categories, themes, concepts or formulate a theory.

Basic principles of qualitative data analysis Analysis involves working with data, organizing them, breaking them into manageable units, synthesizing them, searching of patterns, discovering what is important and what is to be learned, and deciding what you will tell others. Qualitative data analysis is the process of systematically searching and arranging the transcripts, field notes, and other materials that you accumulate to increase your own understanding of them and to enable you to present what you have discovered to others. Qualitative research produces large amounts of textual data in the forms of transcripts and observational field notes.

To provide the basics of qualitative data analysis and provide relevant literature for more information on qualitative data analysis.
