Introduction
*This image was created using napkin.ai; however, the concept, design direction, and creative vision were conceived by Dr. Knight and Chris Cardenas
In this chapter, we will examine the essential components of qualitative data analysis, starting with our ethical responsibilities as researchers. Approaching data with cultural respect ensures that we honor the voices and lived experiences of those who have shared their stories with us. Next, we will examine how to account for our own influence in the analysis process by using reflexive journaling, memoing, and maintaining an audit trail—practices that promote transparency and help us stay aware of our assumptions and biases.
We will then outline how to develop a clear data analysis plan to guide our work and ensure consistency throughout the study. From there, we will look at practical strategies for managing data in a well-organized database. After organizing the data, we will explore the process of coding—identifying and labeling patterns in the data—and how this serves as a foundation for deeper interpretation. Finally, we will examine content analysis, a method used to uncover both explicit and implicit themes in textual data. Together, these tools and strategies will help us approach qualitative data analysis with integrity, insight, and intentionality.
* AI was used to help organize my thoughts and suggest clarifying sentences, but all ideas and final writing are entirely my own.
🎯 Learning Objectives
- Identify how researchers can conduct ethically responsible qualitative data analysis.
- Explain the role of culture and cultural context in qualitative data analysis (for both researcher and participant)
- Define and construct a data analysis plan
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Describe the seven phases of qualitative data analysis, from initial organization to final write-up.
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Explain the purpose and importance of each phase in the analysis process.
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Understand the role of coding as a tool for simplifying and organizing complex qualitative data.
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Create and use analytic memos to reflect on developing themes and interpretations.
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Apply strategies for maintaining confidentiality and protecting participants’ identities during analysis.
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Recognize the importance of checking interpretations to ensure findings are grounded in the data and not based on assumptions.
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Begin developing skills to write up qualitative findings clearly, ethically, and thoughtfully.
