Introduction to the KWALON Experiment: Discussions on Qualitative Data Analysis Software by Developers and Users

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.

Qualitative data analysis software (QDAS) packages that support live data extraction are a relatively recent innovation. Little has been written concerning the research implications of differences in such QDAS packages’ functionalities, and how such disparities might contribute to contrasting analytical opportunities. Consequently, early-stage researchers may experience difficulties in choosing an apt QDAS for Twitter analysis. In response to both methodological gaps, this paper presents a software comparison across the four QDAS tools that support live Twitter data imports, namely, ATLAS.ti™, NVivo™, MAXQDA™ and QDA Miner™. The authors’ QDAS features checklist for these tools spotlights many differences in their functionalities. These disparities were tested through data imports and thematic coding that was derived from the same queries and codebook. The authors’ resultant QDAS experiences were compared during the first activity of a broad qualitative analysis process, ‘organising data’. Notwithstanding large difference in QDAS pricing, it was surprising how much the tools varied for aspects of qualitative research organisation. Notably, the quantum of data extracted for the same query differed, largely due to contrasts in the types and amount of data that the four QDAS could extract. Variations in how each supported visual organisation also shaped researchers’ opportunities for becoming familiar with Twitter users and their tweet content. Such disparities suggest that choosing a suitable QDAS for organising live Twitter data must dovetail with a researcher’s focus: ATLAS.ti accommodates scholars focused on wrangling unstructured data for personal meaning-making, while MAXQDA suits the mixed-methods researcher. QDA Miner’s easy-to-learn user interface suits a highly efficient implementation of methods, whilst NVivo supports relatively rapid analysis of tweet content. Such findings may help guide Twitter social science researchers and others in QDAS tool selection. Future research can explore disparities in other qualitative research phases, or contrast data extraction routes for a variety of microblogging services.

Developments during the 1990s in the use of computer software for qualitative data analysis are surveyed. Salient trends are identified as are wider issues associated with software use. Also listed are some of the resources now available to potential and actual users of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS).

As the use and availability of qualitative software analysis tools increase, so does ambiguity regarding the choice of the most appropriate software in sport management research. This paper uses NVivo and Leximancer to analyse the same set of data derived from interviews with sport management experts on high performance sport to showcase the differences in findings depending on the type of software used. The findings alert sport management and social science researchers to the importance of closely examining the choice of software for qualitative data analysis. Researchers may base their decision on aspects such as the type and size of data set, their competence and skills in data interpretation and the level of engagement with data analysis they plan on undertaking. This paper discusses the implications for researchers in the sport management field using these tools for data analysis and highlights the value that software can add to the research effort.

The progressing digitalization is increasingly permeating all spheres of life: also science. It has reached not only natural sciences, but also the humanities, such as qualitative educational research. For example, for the analysis of qualitative data in educational science researchers are increasingly using computer-assisted tools. This so-called QDA (qualitative-data-analyses) software was developed in the early 1980s in the course of the spreading digitalization to support the category based analyzes of qualitative research. Providing an overview about the current literature situation regarding QDA software and the issues addressed a systematical bibliographic research in pertinent databases were conducted. As a result, five different types of literature could be identified. Even though all categories are demonstrated only one is presented in detail. The paper focus on the category in which methodological issues are negotiated and illustrates the therein addressed arguments. Possibilities and limitations of QDA software for educational research are illustrated and past and present discussions regarding this software are outlined. In particular, it is emphasized that so far limitations of QDA software are rarely addressed. In order to deal with this void in the future more comprehensively a set of questions is proposed, which allows to reflect the use of QDA software in a specific research project in an extensive manner. Concluding further questions are raised and it is discussed if also sequential analyzes can be carried out with current QDA software or if they need new digital tools.

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.

We conducted a qualitative evaluation of the introduction of a telenursing service. The service used an analogue videophone linked with a physiological monitoring device, which allowed the transmission of data between the patient's home and the hospital. A researcher kept a detailed diary of day-to-day activity for the first year of the project. Computer software for qualitative data analysis was used to code the text and the analysis followed the principles of constant comparison. The diary entries documented how the commercially available equipment was adapted to suit the organization and content of the nurses' work. The nurses made a number of suggestions to improve the user-friendliness of the equipment. The technology, the existing home care service (the comparison arm of the study) and the randomized controlled trial itself all underwent continuous change. The traditional randomized control design of trial has limitations in this situation, and there is a need for more realistic trial designs.

Background:The infants, hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), engage with problems from admission to discharge, exploring of which ensures their safe transition. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors that influence infant's transition from the NICU to home.Materials and Methods:A qualitative study was used for identifying the factors that affect infant's transition. Data were gathered by interviewing 16 nurses and physicians in NICUs of university hospitals in Iran; and were analyzed by qualitative content analysis method. MAXQDA, MAX Qualitative Data Analysis, is a software which has been developed in Berlin, Germany. software, the qualitative data analysis package, was used for coding and categorizing.Results:There are 10 categories that affect infant's transition, as revealed in data analysis. These categories were delineated into three themes: Cognition of infant's needs, effectiveness of trainings, and organizational context.Conclusion:The results of this study further disclosed the factors that facilitate or hinder infant's transition from the NICU to home. The aspects of correct cognition along with more effective trainings must be fully introduced to the staff to meet infant's needs. Also, authorities are better to make policies to decrease organizational barriers. Therefore, it is suggested that applying developmental care can ease infant's transition.

PurposeThe present article deals with the topic of migrants’ exclusion from welfare benefits in European host countries from the angle of the research on the so-called “welfare chauvinism” (Andersen and Bjørklund 1990, p. 212). More specifically, it explores the political justifications behind welfare chauvinism in the policy debate surrounding some recent chauvinist-oriented social policies. Drawing on that, the article develops a theoretical argument to generate expectations about how politicians use different types of justifications. The fundamental proposition is that the chauvinistic arguments used are shaped by the different types of social programs, i.e. either universal or means-tested programs.Design/methodology/approachQualitative content analysis of several selected parliamentary debates in the period 2017–2019 in Austria is carried out. In order to improve the efficiency of the research, the author relies on MAXQDA, an advanced piece of software for qualitative data analysis, to code the qualitative data and analyze them. The author prefers this to other similar programs as it is considered a valid and reliable tool within the academic research world.FindingsThe article points out that programs design works as an explanatory factor to highlight variations of welfare chauvinist arguments.Originality/valueIt develops for the first time a theoretical argument explaining the presence and variation of welfare chauvinist arguments based on social programs design.

PurposeIn this study, the concept of organizational stupidity (OS) and different aspects of the OS is analyzed, and a conceptual model for the OS is proposed.Design/methodology/approachThe data for the OS study were collected by interviewing the employees of the Iran Revenue Agency (IRA), Isfahan Province Branch. The snowball method was used for sampling and data collection. The data collected from interviews are analyzed using MAXQDA (a software for qualitative data analysis).FindingsAfter analyzing the data, a conceptual model for the OS is proposed using the grounded theory (GT). The proposed model contains all factors influencing the OS and the relationship among them. The accuracy of the proposed OS model is confirmed using structural validity, external validity, descriptive validity and interpretive validity. The reliability of the proposed OS model is approved using the Holstie, Miles and Huberman reliability equation. The proposed model shows the casual conditions, interfering factors, contextual factors and main phenomena leading to OS and predicts the strategies and consequences of the OS.Originality/valueThis model can be used to plan strategies for managing and reducing OS in organizations.

Background The use of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in Tanzania has led to a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality and improved quality of life among people living with HIV infection. However, the ease of access and availability of the drugs has, in some cases, led to misuse of the ARV in areas such as animal farming, posing a risk of the emergence of ARV resistance. The study’s objective was to investigate the use of ARV in animal farming and the factors associated with ARV use. We conducted a cross-sectional study in three regions (Dar es Salaam, Iringa, and Mbeya) using focus group discussions. The researchers used NVivo 12 software for qualitative data analysis. Results A total of 113 participants participated in this study. The participants mentioned the use of veterinary, human, and local medicines to be prevalent. The drivers for such usage are disease treatment and prevention, growth promotion, counterfeited drugs, higher cost of animal feeds, profit maximization, market competition, advice from veterinary drug sellers, and easy availability and accessibility of medicines. New Castle, respiratory diseases, and diarrhea were the most common diseases affecting broiler chickens, while limb paralysis, swine fever, and skin diseases were prominent in domestic pigs. The Dar es Salaam region has a scarcity of extension officers compared to the Mbeya and Iringa regions. Almost all FGD participants reported hearing about the use of ARVs and family planning injectable and pills. Some of the participants agreed to use these drugs for growth promotion since they are effective. Conclusion High usage of veterinary, human, and other medicines, including ARVs, in animal production predisposes the Tanzanian community to public health threats, including antibiotic and antiretroviral resistance. We recommend implementing urgent mitigation strategies to control the misuse of human ARVs in animal production.

Qualitative study. To formulate recommendations for standards of physiotherapy care for people with complete traumatic paraplegia in India using a Delphi methodology. India. Twenty-three physiotherapy experts were invited to participate in an online consensus process. Fourteen (n = 14) of 23 physiotherapy experts from India accepted an invitation to participate in an online consensus development exercise (Response rate-60.86%). Four rounds of consensus meetings were conducted which involved posting the quotations from a previous study on expectations of people with paraplegia to obtain perceptions of physiotherapy experts in round 1, retrieving codes/code groups from round 1, posting these code groups in rounds 2 and 3 for experts' agreement/disagreement, the preparation of the draft of recommendations, and posting it in round 4 for experts' opinion. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ATLASti software for qualitative data analysis. Recommendations for physiotherapy care for persons with complete traumatic paraplegia in India are presented. Education to patients and/or caregivers regarding care post injury is one of the important recommendations by physiotherapy experts. It is emphasized that the subjective assessment of the patients, including their needs and preferences, is equally important as that of their objective assessment. Physiotherapy students and practicing physiotherapists must also enhance their knowledge to provide optimal physiotherapy care to people with paraplegia.

Determinants of family support for older patients with chronic non-communicable diseases (chronic diseases) are largely unknown. This study aimed to identify the factors related to family support for older patients in Guangzhou, focusing on solitary living conditions and societal expectations to inform future interventions. The quantitative stage included a sample of 227 people, and the qualitative stage included a sample of 9 people residing alone. Data were collected between December 2021 and December 2022 using the Personal Information Form, the Family Caregiving Index, the Family Support Scale, and the Semi-Structured Interview Form. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression analyses were used for quantitative data analysis. Content analysis was performed using the Nvivo12 software for qualitative data analysis. Of the older patients with chronic diseases, 83.7% had good family function, as indicated by an APGAR score of 9 (interquartile range 7–10) or higher. The median self-rating score for family support was 13 (interquartile range 11–14), with 75.8% reporting high family support. After adjusting for sex, age, education level, family type, family power structure, perceived marital quality, perceived filial support, and frequency of contact with children, several factors were found to be significantly associated with poorer family outcomes. For family function, perceived marital quality as average or poor (β = − 1.30, 95% CI: − 2.37 to − 0.24, P = 0.018), having no children (β = 6.35, 95% CI: 2.04 to 10.66, P = 0.005), and low-frequency contact with children (β = − 7.76, 95% CI: − 11.54 to − 3.98, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower family function scores. Similarly, for family support, perceived marital quality as average or poor (β = − 1.76, 95% CI: − 3.24 to − 0.28, P = 0.021), no spouse (β = − 2.01, 95% CI: − 3.34 to − 0.68, P = 0.003), no children (β = 8.58, 95% CI: 2.63 to 14.54, P = 0.006), and low-frequency contact with children (β = − 10.06, 95% CI: − 15.30 to − 4.81, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with poorer family support. Qualitative analysis revealed living conditions, family and societal support, and expectations and needs for medical services among solitary older adults. Poor perceived marital quality, lack of spousal support, low filial support from children, and infrequent contact with children are risk factors for poor family functioning and low support among older patients with chronic diseases. Enhanced societal and familial support mechanisms are crucial, especially for older adults living alone.

Background: Meer Bewegen voor Ouderen is a Dutch umbrella organization that aims to improve the physical, social and psychological wellbeing of senior citizens. Weekly 300,000 older adults participate nationwide in community based ‘gym classes’. In order to achieve the recommended amount of physical activity, the participants are stimulated to repeat the exercises outside the classroom. Aims: As part of the VITAMINE project a qualitative study was conducted in order to determine a) the motivation of the participants to join the weekly classes b) the current level of physical activity outside the classes c) the susceptibility to an additional exercise program for the home environment and d) attitudes towards technology to support such an exercise program. Method: Seven focusgroups were conducted with an average of 6 participants. During the focusgroups a semi-structured interview and brainstorming session was held. The focusgroups lasted approximately 1.5 hours. In total 41 older adults participated in the study. The results were recorded with video and afterwards transcribed and coded with software for qualitative data analysis (MAXQDA). Results: Due to technical difficulties the responses of two focusgroups were not included in the analysis. The average age of the remaining 31 participants was 74 years (SD=9). All participants were female and in general had a low education. Their motivation to participate in the weekly gym classes was to stay fit. Most participants believed this would contribute to their ability to live longer independently. However, all the participants indicated that the social aspect of the weekly classes was also a major reason for them to join. Furthermore, they indicated they had a moderate to active life style. The need to do exercises at home was acknowledged in part. Participants indicated they were willing to spend daily 15 minutes for a home-based exercise program. Some emphasized the program should be varied, whilst others preferred a fixed routine in the exercises. However, all participants expressed the need to be able to adjust the exercise program to their own need. Also, they foresaw motivation to adhere to the home-based exercise program would be an issue. Concerning technology, a minority of the subjects were skeptical and did not welcome a home-based exercise program that was supported by technology in any form. They feared it would be too complex and they would not be able to learn the necessary skills. The majority of the participants, however, were either open to the possibility or enthusiastic about the use of technology in a home-based exercise program. A tablet seemed to be a viable option. They felt it could help them with instructions (demonstration videos) and planning. The use of reminders and social interaction with peers was received with more mixed feelings. Furthermore, most of the participants objected to the possible use of fitness trackers due to privacy concern. Several participants indicated the tablet should also be able to play music during their exercises, similar to the community based exercise program. Conclusions: An additional home-based exercise program should be consistent with the motivation of the older adults to join the weekly classes; it should make clear how it can contribute to live independently for longer. Personalizing the exercise program to the preferences of the individual is key. A training to operate a device like a tablet seems crucial to overcome the anxiety some older adults have for technology. If, and how, a technology supported home-based exercise program should make use of social elements should be explored further. The results of the described focus groups, however, should be interpreted carefully. Most of the participants were not familiar with technology as tablets. For this reason it was difficult for them to identify opportunities or threats of a home-based exercise program supported by technology. In a follow-up study the researchers will present participants a prototype tablet, in part based on the outcome of the reported focusgroups, with which the older adults can interact. This will validate and extend the findings of the present study.

Background Medical simulation is a teaching method, which enables the development of clinical skills by implementing a simulation scenario in a true-to-life environment, but without exposing patients to any risk. So far, there has been no information on the use of high-fidelity simulation in undergraduate clinical nephrology teaching. Aim of this study was to analyze students' opinions and reactions to the simulation module in nephrology. Methods The survey consisting of the Satisfaction with Simulation Experience Scale (SSES) and open-ended question concerning the overall impression of classes was conducted among 103 5th year medical students, who took part in the simulation training in nephrology. SSES consisted of three parts (debriefing, reasoning, education). Statements from the open-ended question were interpreted by means of the Atlas.ti software for qualitative data analysis. Results The overall score for simulation classes was 4.39 ± 0.69 points. Students rated debriefing, reasoning and education at 4.43 ± 0.78, 4.32 ± 0.7 and 4.39 ± 0.73 points, respectively. 87.4% and 84.5% of participants agreed that simulation developed their 'clinical reasoning' and 'decision-making' skills in nephrology, respectively. Thematic analysis revealed that students evaluated the module as 'interesting', 'useful' and 'informative', but they found number of classes significantly insufficient. Students pointed out that due to the small emphasis placed on practical aspects in the existing curriculum e.g. routes of drug administration and conversion of doses, they could not fully benefit from simulation. Conclusion Medical simulation is a valuable constituent of the nephrology course. Putting greater emphasis on practical aspects from the beginning of training may enable students to benefit more from simulation modules.