Learning Objectives

Chapter overview and goal

After reading this chapter, you will have a better understanding of:

  • What a three-pronged approach to data analysis looks like and the specific strategies and methods you can use in data analysis processes
  • How to manage and organize your data and what this means for data analysis
  • How to develop a solid data management plan
  • The analytical decisions related to transcribing data
  • Processes for pre-coding data
  • What it means to immerse yourself in your data and how to do so
  • Different ways to “read” data
  • What coding is and how to do it
  • The different approaches to coding qualitative data
  • The role of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis (CAQDAS) in data analysis
  • How to holistically analyze data items through connecting strategies
  • Ways to structure and approach dialogic engagement exercises as you analyze your data
  • Processes for developing analytic themes
  • Considerations and processes for ensuring validity during data analysis
  • How writing is an ongoing part of data analysis
  • What you can do to resist imposing interpretative authority