Notes Application

🧠 Analysis, Interpretation, and Reporting in Qualitative Research

📌 Key terms

Term	Definition
Qualitative Analysis	The process of identifying patterns, themes, and meanings within textual or visual data.
Inductive Coding	Deriving codes and themes directly from the data rather than from pre-existing theory.
Deductive Coding	Using a pre-established framework or theory to code data.
Thematic Analysis	A method for identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) across a dataset.
Content Analysis	Systematic coding and categorizing of text to quantify patterns of meaning.
Grounded Theory	A methodology where theory emerges from the data itself through iterative coding.
Reflexivity	Continuous reflection on how the researcher’s own background, assumptions, and position influence the study.
Triangulation	Using multiple sources, methods, or investigators to cross-check findings.
Member Checking	Returning findings to participants for confirmation of accuracy.
Thick Description	Providing detailed contextual information so readers can judge transferability.
Audit Trail	A transparent record of research decisions, data, and analysis steps.
Interpretivism	The philosophical stance that emphasizes understanding the subjective meanings individuals attach to experiences.
Credibility	The extent to which findings are believable and accurately represent participants’ realities.
Transferability	The degree to which findings can apply to other contexts.
Dependability	The stability of data over time and conditions (similar to reliability).
Confirmability	The extent to which findings are shaped by participants rather than researcher bias.

📌 Notes

Data Analysis in Qualitative Research

Data (transcripts, notes, recordings) are analyzed iteratively—collection and analysis occur simultaneously.
The goal is meaning-making, not measurement.
Coding is central: segments of text are labeled with categories or “codes.”
Codes are grouped into themes that explain behaviors, attitudes, or processes.
Methods include:
- Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006)
- Grounded Theory (Glaser & Strauss, 1967)
- Content Analysis (Berelson, 1952)

Approaches to Coding

Approach	Process	Example
Inductive	Codes emerge from data without a prior framework.	Interviews with teachers reveal “emotional exhaustion” → theme arises naturally.
Deductive	Uses theoretical constructs to guide coding.	Using Bandura’s SCT categories: attention, retention, reproduction, motivation.
Hybrid	Combines inductive and deductive methods for flexibility.	Pre-set codes guide analysis, but new themes also allowed.

Ensuring Trustworthiness

Criterion	Meaning	How to Achieve
Credibility	Confidence in truth of findings.	Triangulation, member checks, peer debriefing.
Transferability	Applicability to other contexts.	Provide thick description.
Dependability	Stability and consistency.	Keep audit trails, code-recode checks.
Confirmability	Objectivity of findings.	Reflexivity, external audits.

Reporting Qualitative Research

Reports should include:

Context & participants – who, where, why.
Data collection methods – interviews, observations.
Analytic approach – how themes were derived.
Evidence – quotes supporting themes.
Researcher reflexivity – awareness of personal bias.
Ethical considerations – consent, confidentiality, cultural sensitivity.

Good reporting balances narrative clarity, ethical integrity, and analytical transparency.

🔍Tok link

To what extent can qualitative interpretations claim “truth” when they rely on subjective meanings?
TOK explores whether empathy and interpretation can be reliable ways of knowing in the human sciences.

🌐 Real-World Connection

Qualitative analysis is essential in clinical psychology, education, and marketing research.
For instance, analyzing patient interviews can inform better mental-health interventions.

❤️ CAS Link

Students can practice reflexivity by conducting and reflecting on informal interviews (e.g., about study stress).
Keeping a “reflexive journal” helps link classroom theory to real-world empathy and ethical understanding.

🧠 IA Guidance

For the IA, students must analyze quantitative data, but they can apply qualitative insight by writing reflective notes on design limitations and participant perceptions—strengthening discussion of validity.

🧠 Examiner Tips

Always distinguish between thematic, content, and grounded theory analyses.
Clearly connect each trustworthiness criterion to practical methods.
Mention reflexivity and triangulation in evaluation questions for higher marks.
Use key terminology: “coding,” “themes,” “audit trail,” “member checking,” “transferability.”