Methods & Meanings

Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software

Diane G. Cope

qualitative data analysis, computer-assisted data analysis
ONF 2014, 41(3), 322-323. DOI: 10.1188/14.ONF.322-323

Advances in technology have provided new approaches for data collection methods and analysis for researchers. Data collection is no longer limited to paper-and-pencil format, and numerous methods are now available through Internet and electronic resources. With these techniques, researchers are not burdened with entering data manually and data analysis is facilitated by software programs. Quantitative research is supported by the use of computer software and provides ease in the management of large data sets and rapid analysis of numeric statistical methods. New technologies are emerging to support qualitative research with the availability of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS).CAQDAS will be presented with a discussion of advantages, limitations, controversial issues, and recommendations for this type of software use.

Jump to a section

    References

    Banner, D.J., & Albarran, J.W. (2009). Computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software: A review. Canadian Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 19(3), 24-27.
    Clayton, M.F., Reblin, M., Carlisle, M., & Ellington, L. (2014). Communication behaviors and patient and caregiver emotional concerns: A description of home hospice communication. Oncology Nursing Forum, 41, 311-321. doi:10.1188/14.ONF.311-321
    Evers, J. (2011). From the past into the future. How technological developments change our ways of data collection, transcription and analysis. Retrieved from http://www.qualitative-research.net/index.php/fqs/article/view/1636/3162
    McLafferty, E., & Farley, A.H. (2006). Analysing qualitative research data using computer software. Nursing Times, 102(24), 34-36.
    Richards, L. (2002). Rigorous, rapid, reliable and qualitative? Computing in qualitative method. American Journal of Health Behaviour, 26, 425-430.
    St. John, W., & Johnson, P. (2000). The pros and cons of data analysis software for qualitative research. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 32, 393-397.