Content analysis in empirical social research

An theoretically grounded, practicable model of content analysis is introduced, which fulfills the criteria of empirical social research and controversy between quantitative and qualitative schools of research are discussed.

Abstract

An overview of the development of empirical content analysis is presented. Its development relevant to educational research from classical to computer-aided content analysis is traced. The history of hermeneutic text interpretation is included as well as the early developments in the analysis of manifest content of communication. The controversy between quantitative and qualitative schools of research is discussed. A theoretically grounded, practicable model of content analysis is introduced, which fulfills the criteria of empirical social research.