Computer software and qualitative analysis: Trends, issues and resources

Teaching qualitative methods to students has become more frequent in social work programs. The use of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software has also increased. Improper use of these software programs, however, can lead to misinterpretation of qualitative data. Computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software instruction has evolved in an ad hoc manner in spite of the importance of correct use of this software. This results in a lack of thorough knowledge of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software or knowledge of the software that poorly incorporates qualitative methodology. We propose a new model that addresses these barriers by incorporating computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software instruction with qualitative inquiry via a dual instruction method. This model centers on the collaboration between the qualitative faculty instructor and a specialized computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software trainer. The result of this is integration of qualitative research knowledge with computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software skills. Both the faculty member and specialized computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software trainer have the opportunity to work with the students and collaborate with one another. This paper describes the new model, including its conception and requirements for its implementation. We discuss our own experiences implementing the model and offer individual reflections of the faculty member, the trainer, and a student from the pilot program. The results appear to be more effective and appropriate use of this software.

Purpose This chapter aims to explicate the use of computer software for qualitative data analysis. Drawing on both a review of relevant literature and a reflexive commentary on an ongoing ethnography, this chapter argues that the use of computer software for qualitative data analysis facilitates rigour and reliability in research, whilst also contributing to wider debates regarding the distinctions made between different research paradigms. Design/methodology/approach The chapter is divided into two sections. In the first, a review of literature pertaining to the use of computer software for qualitative data analysis is reported. The key themes to emerge from this review are then explored in the second section, which consists of a reflexive commentary on the use of computer software for qualitative data analysis within an ongoing three-year Canadian/UK research project. Findings The chapter concludes firstly by foregrounding the methodological benefits of using computer software for qualitative data analysis, and secondly by commenting on wider debates relating to the historical distinctions between quantitative and qualitative research paradigms. Practical implications The chapter suggests that the uptake of computer software for qualitative data analysis should be considered as an integral element of the research design process. Originality/value The originality of this chapter rests in its focus on methodology rather than method, on a reflexive discussion of the place of computer software within the research process rather than a technical description of how software should be used. This chapter is of value not only to researchers who are using or considering using software for their research, but also to researchers who are engaged in wider methodological discussions relating to qualitative and quantitative research paradigms, and to research quality and generalisability.

For many years, qualitative analysis has largely been undertaken using manual techniques. Since the late 1980s, dedicated software has been developed to aid qualitative analysis. The first generation of computer programs was largely designed to assist researchers in managing data by enabling the structuring of information from focus groups, field notes and interviews. One of the first computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS) packages (developed by Australian academic Tom Richards) was called NUD*IST, which stands for Non-numerical Unstructured Data Indexing, Searching and Theorising. It was designed to provide a program like SPSS but as a non-Statistical Package for Social Scientists. Second generation CAQDAS packages introduced functions for coding text and manipulating, searching and reporting on the coded text. This assisted researchers in the retrieval of text from data, enabled scholars to code that data and develop a system of relating codes to each other using tree-like structures.

In this introduction to the KWALON Experiment and related conference, we describe the motivations of the collaborating European networks in organising this joint endeavour. The KWALON Experiment consisted of five developers of Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) software analysing a dataset regarding the financial crisis in the time period 2008-2009, provided by the conference organisers. Besides this experiment, researchers were invited to present their reflective papers on the use of QDA software. This introduction gives a description of the experiment, the rules, research questions and reflective points, as well as a full description of the dataset and search rules used, and our reflection on the lessons learned. The related conference is described, as are the papers which are included in this FQS issue.

The reviewed book concentrates on the issue of qualitative data analysis. It primarily provides practical information for students and social researchers on how to deal with textual data starting with data preparation until writing the actual report. The book proposes as a convenient and effective way to process data. But, what is additionally valuable, it suggests multiple comparative analysis techniques which would allow a researcher to go beyond simple coding and retrieving in order to achieve more plausible and in-depth interpretations. Apart from this, it introduces a reader to the analysis of biographies and narratives, as well as to computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS). The book is full of practical advice, with a lot of how-to-do suggestions and useful examples, as well as indications of the possible difficulties in the analysis. Still, even if the book seems to be kept on an elementary level, it would have helped readers to better apply proposed practical advice to their research, if, before reading the book, they had acquired more general knowledge about the specificity of qualitative analysis and the various approaches used within it. URN: urn:nbn:de:0114-fqs100341

Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) are tools that help researchers to develop qualitative research projects. These software packages help the users with tasks such as transcription analysis, coding and text interpretation, writing and annotation, content search and analysis, recursive abstraction, grounded theory methodology, discourse analysis, data mapping, among several other types of analysis. This paper analyses the new paradigm of self-learning that presents itself increasingly as a competence to support learning in a proactive way. It further analyses education and CAQDAS with emphasis on the use of CAQDAS in educational research and the self-learning of CAQDAS. The study conducted had two main goals: analyse the self-learning tools of CAQDAS and identify CAQDAS's users profile regarding learning. Six software packages were selected: NVivo, Atlas.ti, Dedoose, webQDA, MAXQDA, and QDA Miner. They were then reviewed, taking into account their transversality, language, (self-learning) tools, among several other factors. The results show that there is a considerable demand for information from users regarding the execution of processes in CAQDAS, and that the packages analysed do not guide the user towards the self-learning tools that best fit their learning style.

This exploratory study analysed the Threshold Learning Outcomes (TLOs) specified in the Bachelor of Laws Learning and Teaching Academic Standards Statement December 2010, and the Competency Standards for Entry-Level Lawyers for Practical Legal Training, as updated by the Australasian Professional Legal Education Council and Law Admissions Consultative Committee in February 2002 (NCS). The qualitative analysis was undertaken using the NVivo computer assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS), to investigate how skills were categorised and defined in each of the documents. The results were then analysed to compare the respective categorisation and definition of skills, and to point to potential complements, overlaps, conflicts, gaps, or blind spots, between the TLOs and the NCS. The findings, and the methodology adopted, might provide insights for future instructional design, content, and delivery of Practical Legal Training programs, and for future reviews of the TLOs and NCS.

Background Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that predominantly affects women (by a ratio of 9:1), and age at onset is typically between 40-60 years. Symptoms of dryness of the vagina and vulva can cause painful sexual intercourse and can result in diminished levels of sexual arousal and desire. This can lead to a lack of understanding by their partner, which can place an immense strain on their relationship. Furthermore, intimacy issues can be a particularly sensitive subject and often go undiscussed, even between partners, which can leave them feeling isolated and without an adequate support network. Many patient groups turn to online support forums and use these sites to discuss sensitive issues under the cloak of anonymity. Analysing this source of data allows us to explore the conversations pertaining to intimacy issues that individuals with SS may not feel comfortable discussing in person. Methods The forum data was scraped using the automated Web Scraper tool, accessed from the developer tools within Google Chrome. The Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis (CAQDAS) software tool ATLAS.ti was used to facilitate the data analysis process. The process of analysis was conducted in accordance with both Braun and Clarke’s Thematic Analysis (TA) framework and Freise, Sorrato and Pires guidelines for applying the phases of TA within the ATLAS.ti software. Results A total of 3,557 posts were identified as being pertinent to the topic of intimacy. Conversations were centred around the lack of sexual activity with their partners, with users revealing they had been abstaining for years as a result of vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, fatigue and widespread pain. Numerous users discussed being unable to engage in intimate activities like handholding and hugging due to allodynia and issues with temperature regulation, as well as refraining from kissing as they perceived others kisses to be too wet and sloppy. One conversation theme was centred around increased cognitive effort and behaviour changes, with many users revealing that they plan sexual activity around symptoms, regularly implement self-management strategies before, during, and after sexual activity, and use smaller gestures to show emotion. There was also a body of conversation focused around the emotional impacts of sexual dysfunction with users unanimously discussing their experience with feelings of guilt, burden, fear of intimacy and pain, and saudade - a deep emotional state of longing for the past and their previous selves. Conclusion Individuals with SS experience alterations in their sexual activity and relationship dynamics, with symptoms of vaginal dryness, fatigue and pain being discussed as the most debilitating of symptoms. Disclosures J.L. McCready None. K. McCarty None. V. Deary None. T.L. Collins None. K.L. Hackett None.

The maritime industry plays a dual role as a critical driver of global trade and a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) and air pollutant emissions, posing challenges to environmental sustainability. As key nodes in the global supply chain, ports face mounting pressure to adopt greener practices. This study synthesises insights from contemporary scientific research articles, highlighting best practices, successful case studies, and obstacles in implementing emission reduction strategies and environmentally friendly port services worldwide. A two-step mixed-methods approach was utilised, combining a systematic review of literature with qualitative data analysis. The PRISMA methodology guided the selection of 27 peer-reviewed articles from the Web of Science Core Collection, spanning the period from 2015 to 2024. Subsequently, thematic coding and comprehensive analysis were conducted using Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) ATLAS.ti, enabling a structured synthesis of findings related to port services and emission reduction strategies. Through this analysis, three critical themes emerged as essential for enhancing environmental sustainability in port operations: innovative technologies for emission reduction, data-driven optimization for port efficiency, and policies and governance for green ports. Drivers such as financial incentives, advanced technologies, and regulatory frameworks were identified, alongside barriers like economic feasibility, technical challenges, and organisational resistance. These themes reveal the interconnected nature of sustainability efforts and the need for collaborative strategies to overcome existing obstacles. By identifying key drivers and challenges, this research offers valuable insights for advancing sustainable practices in port operations. The findings underscore the importance of aligning technological, operational, and policy-driven measures to foster environmental efficiency while mitigating emissions. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable port operations, providing actionable insights for stakeholders and policymakers in the maritime industry to support the transition toward greener and more efficient port practices.

Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) was developed for the purpose of creating efficient modes of qualitative data analysis (Fielding & Lee, 1998). Despite these developments, many social scientists continue to advocate manual data analysis techniques (Hammersley & Atkinson, 1995). Given the rapid development of computerized methods of data analysis amid the continued call for the use of naturalistic inquiry in sport psychology research, the aim of this research note was to compare manual and computerized data analysis techniques. Results highlight the advantages, disadvantages, and commonly held assumptions of the use of CAQDAS.

As professional demands in an increasingly competitive academic environment are growing, professors are often assigned to teach outside their area of expertise. This paper investigates the experience of teaching new courses that are outside a faculty member’s immediate area of expertise. Key questions concern the extent to which faculty members appreciate the opportunity to be content novices and whether they accept to appear as such in front of their students. This paper uses an online qualitative survey of 70 international faculty members from diverse academic disciplines. It also employs the computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS) package NVivo (Version 12) to conduct a series of qualitative analysis. Our findings suggest a fluctuation in the faculty members’ responses about the importance of mastering the subject matter and the joy of teaching as a content novice. The study finally provides practical suggestions on how to succeed in teaching outside one’s area of expertise.

The last decades have shown large progress in the elaboration of procedures for qualitative data analysis and in the development of computer programs to support this kind of analysis. We believe, however, that the link between methodology and computer software tools is too loose, especially for a novice qualitative researcher. It is very unclear to select the proper functions and tools as a support in a specific phase of analysis. In texts, you will find a description of the steps of qualitative analysis, and in separate texts computer tools are presented, but what function or tool to use in what phase of analysis is hardly discussed. In this article, we will elaborate the phases of the grounded theory approach and indicate which of the tools of the computer program Kwalitan is to be used in each of the steps and procedures. We will also show how the functions of the computer program may be used when doing a qualitative analysis according to three other approaches, namely summarizing analysis, ethnographic analysis and narrative analysis.

Advances in technology have provided new approaches for data collection methods and analysis for researchers. Data collection is no longer limited to paper-and-pencil format, and numerous methods are now available through Internet and electronic resources. With these techniques, researchers are not burdened with entering data manually and data analysis is facilitated by software programs. Quantitative research is supported by the use of computer software and provides ease in the management of large data sets and rapid analysis of numeric statistical methods. New technologies are emerging to support qualitative research with the availability of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS).CAQDAS will be presented with a discussion of advantages, limitations, controversial issues, and recommendations for this type of software use.

Purpose This paper aims to explore the potential of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS) to be used as a corruption investigation tool to help investigators in carrying out their investigative works. Design/methodology/approach By reviewing the literature on qualitative research and fraud investigation, this exploratory study identifies similarities between the two types of inquiries and thus proposing the use of CAQDAS as an innovation in the field of corruption investigation. To demonstrate how a QDA application can support corruption investigators, NVivo is used as a case study from which various key analytical tools are discussed to highlight their potential in supporting a corruption investigation. Findings As a fundamental part of anti-corruption practice in a country, corruption investigation must be planned and executed professionally and adequately. This paper highlights various stages in fraud investigation to identify areas that can be improved with the use of a CAQDAS. Based on the discussion in this paper, the author concludes that the capability of a CAQDAS to assist users in data reduction and data display has the potential to increase the effectiveness and efficiency in various stages of a corruption investigation. Research limitations/implications Based on a self-funded study, this paper only uses a simulation case with a fictitious company to illustrate how a CAQDAS application can be used to support a corruption investigation process. Future studies may benefit from using actual corruption cases in illustrating how such an application can support the investigation process. Practical implications This paper contributes to the innovation in anti-corruption practice by proposing a new framework and tool to develop corruption investigation capacity. Originality/value This paper brings a new perspective into the field of anti-corruption to stimulate innovation in the area of corruption investigation.

Data Analysis of Virtual Learning Environment: Using the Computer-Mediated Discourse Analysis Technique with the Support of Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software