Qualitative Research Module

Making Sense of
Raw Data

Transforming interview transcripts, observation notes, and documents into meaningful categories and themes through Coding and Thematic Analysis.

Start Coding Explore Themes

What is Coding?

The Definition

Coding is the process of labeling chunks of text with short words or phrases that capture their meaning. It bridges the gap between raw storytelling and scientific analysis.

Interactive Example Hover text

Transcript line: “I felt anxious before every online class.”

1

Open Coding

Breaking data into smaller discrete parts and naming them.

2

Axial Coding

Connecting categories and subcategories to find relationships.

3

Selective Coding

Refining into core themes or overarching concepts.

Methodology

Thematic Analysis

A structured method for identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) across data (Braun & Clarke, 2006).

1

Familiarization

Read and re-read data to gain deep understanding. Immerse yourself in the content.

2

Initial Coding

Assign codes to important segments of text systematically across the entire data set.

3

Searching for Themes

Collate codes into potential themes, gathering all data relevant to each potential theme.

4

Reviewing Themes

Check if the themes work in relation to the coded extracts (Level 1) and the entire data set (Level 2).

5

Defining & Naming Themes

Ongoing analysis to refine the specifics of each theme, and the overall story the analysis tells.

6

Writing the Report

The final opportunity for analysis. Integrate quotes and analysis to tell the story.

Example Themes: “Challenges of Online Learning,” “Coping Strategies,” “Motivation & Support”

Tools

NVivo

Powerful software for coding, visualizations (word clouds, mind maps), and theme tracking.

Atlas.ti

Emphasizes networks and connections between codes.

Manual Coding

Using Word/Excel or pen and paper. Crucial for understanding logic before using software.

Tip: Understanding the logic of coding is more important than the tool itself.

Example: Raw Data to Themes

Raw Data Excerpt Initial Code Theme
“I was nervous to present my research in English.” Language anxiety Challenges in academic communication
“My supervisor always encouraged me to keep going.” Supervisor support Sources of motivation
“Studying online gave me flexibility to manage work and family.” Flexibility Benefits of online learning

Ensuring Trustworthiness

Credibility

Use member-checking & triangulation.

Dependability

Maintain a coding audit trail.

Confirmability

Findings reflect participants, not bias.

Transferability

Rich description for applicability.

Reflection Activity

Your Turn:

  1. Download a short interview transcript from the course resources.
  2. Try manual coding by highlighting meaningful phrases.
  3. Group your codes into possible themes.