Data Analysis for Social Research using Qualitative and Quantitative Techniques

Let’s take a look at how data analysis is conducted in qualitative research and the different methods that are commonly used to do so. 

How do we Identify Patterns in Qualitative Data

When analysing and looking for patterns in textual information, there are many different methods that can be used, including:

• Word-based Method: The word-based method generally involves manually reading through the gathered data to find repetitive themes or commonly used words. 

• Scrutiny-based Technique: The scrutiny-based technique is used to derive conclusions based solely on what is already known by the researcher. This is a popular method of text analysis for identifying correlations and patterns within textual information.   
• Variable Partitioning: Variable partitioning, or dynamic partitioning, can be used to split variables so that more coherent descriptions and explanations can be extracted from vast vast data. 

Methods used for Data Analysis in Qualitative Research

There are six main methods of data analysis used in quantitative research:

• Narrative Analysis: Narrative analysis, also known as narrative inquiry, is a qualitative research method where researchers interpret texts or visual data that have a storied form. There are different approaches to narrative analysis, including; functional, thematic, structural, and dialogic.
• Qualitative Content Analysis: This is a straightforward method of qualitative research where patterns within a piece of content are evaluated. It can be used with different forms of content such as words, phrases, and/or images.
• Grounded Theory: This method of qualitative analysis is used to create new theories using the data collected, by using a series of “tests” and “revisions”. Grounded theory (GT) follows a structured but flexible methodology and is generally focused on social processes or actions.