Content analysis and thematic analysis Flashcards
What is content analysis?
A method of quantifying qualitative data through the use of coding units
What is thematic analysis?
A method of qualitative research linked to content analysis, which involves analysing data to identify the patterns with it
What does content analysis involve?
The quantification of qualitative material
The numerical analysis of written, verbal and visual communications
What are the 6 stages involved in thematic analysis?
1) Familiarisation with the data
2) Coding
3) Searching for themes
4) Reviewing themes
5) Defining and naming themes
6) Writing up
What does thematic analysis allow for?
The identification of ideas within the data not just counting words and phrases
What is coding in the terms of thematic analysis?
Generating labels/codes that identify features of the data important to answering the research question
What does searching for themes involve?
Involves examining the codes and data to identify patterns of meaning
What does reviewing themes involve?
Checking themes against the data to see if they explain the data and explain the research question
What does defining and naming themes involve?
A detailed analysis of each theme and creating an informative name for each one
What does writing up involve?
Combining together the information gained from the analysis
What are strengths of thematic and content analysis?
- Ease of application
- Easy to perform
- Inexpensive
- Non-invasive
- complements other methods
- Reliability
What are limitations of thematic and content analysis?
- Descriptive, no explanatory power
- Flawed results
- Lack of causality
