Computer assisted qualitative and quantitative analysis of qualitative data

Computer assisted qualitative and quantitative analysis of qualitative data

Thursday 26/05 10:30-12:00h

Main Hall

Abstract

The aim of the workshop is to present the participants with one of the best existing software packages for the analysis of qualitative data (e.g. text, images, audio, video, etc.). MAXQDA is one of the most popular software packages for qualitative and mixed methods research, which offers the same features on both, Windows and Mac, thus the potential workshop participants are not limited to a specific operating system. Moreover, MAXQDA can be and is used by representatives of multiple scientific fields. The workshop will focus on the most essential features of the software that enable conducting qualitative and quantitative analysis of qualitative data.

Needs Analysis

In the academic community, data triangulation is seen as one of the criteria that ensures high quality and robustness of research. This means that researchers have to deal with qualitative data at least to some extent. There exist various software packages for computer assisted analysis of such data, but training opportunities on using them are scarce or costly. The proposed workshop will provide the participants with the most essential practical skills of using one of the most convenient software packages suitable for qualitative and mixed methods research, namely, MAXQDA. This software is also extremely useful in conducting literature reviews, which is part of every PhD student’s path, so having a tool that can save time and improve reliability of complex theoretical findings (also empirical findings when empirical data is considered) is of essence.

Learning Objectives

After attending the workshop, the participants will be able to:

• Upload different types of data to the software;
• Import and/or create code structure and memos;
• Perform various types of data coding;
• Perform various tasks related to lexical search;
• Generate qualitative and quantitative results;
• Create data visualizations;
• Know further applications of MAXQDA.

Pre-activities

Before attending the workshop, attendees should have at least the basic understanding of the differences between qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method research. They should also download the trial version of the software (preferably no earlier than 1-2 days before the workshop).

Session Description

This workshop includes a short theoretical introduction to the main concepts and essence of qualitative studies and how their process can be approached by using MAXQDA. Later, it is purely practical. As I show what can be done with the software, workshop attendees try everything themselves too (using their laptops). To keep the sessions interactive, I always ask questions and provide examples relevant to the attendees. My experience shows that the discussion element is mostly present at the end of the workshops when attendees fully understand what can be done with this software and then they have specific questions regarding their projects.

Post-activities

I am one of MAXQDA’s professional trainers, so I would share all the e-format books and tutorials with the attendees that might not be available otherwise. After all my training events, I am available for consultations on using the software for different projects.