Generating best evidence from qualitative research: the role of data analysis
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public HealthPublished 1 December 2007Open access
Julie Green, Karen Willis, Emma Hughes, Rhonda Small, Nicky Welch, Lisa Gibbs
Citations871
SJR quartileQ2
SJR score0.86
SNIP0.79
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To outline the importance of the clarity of data analysis in the doing and reporting of interview-based qualitative research. APPROACH: We explore the clear links between data analysis and evidence. We argue that transparency in the data analysis process is integral to determining the evidence that is generated. Data analysis must occur concurrently with data collection and comprises an ongoing process of 'testing the fit' between the data collected and analysis. We discuss four steps in the process of thematic data analysis: immersion, coding, categorising and generation of themes. CONCLUSION: Rigorous and systematic analysis of qualitative data is integral to the production of high-quality research. Studies that give an explicit account of the data analysis process provide insights into how conclusions are reached while studies that explain themes anchored to data and theory produce the strongest evidence.
Keywords
Social Sciences
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