Thematic analysis

Question 1

What is thematic analysis?

Answer 1

A method that identifies and and analyses patterns in qualitative data

Question 2

Step one

Answer 2

Read data multiple times and create a list of points that cover what is in the data and what is interesting

Question 3

Step two

Answer 3

Write as many codes as you want and you can change them whenever you want

Question 4

Step three

Answer 4

When all codes are identified, themes can be developed. Most codes are grouped together in preliminary themes

Question 5

Step four

Answer 5

Refine themes and have clear separations. Some themes will be major and others less important sub themes.

Question 6

Step five

Answer 6

Write a detailed account of each theme and devise names

Question 7

Step six

Answer 7

produce a report by using examples that best represent the themes

Question 8

Strengths

Answer 8

• The richness of the data is not lost by changing it into numbers
• Can check concurrent validity of the theme by applying them to another piece of data that is similar nature to see if there are similarities

Question 9

Weaknesses

Answer 9

• Lacks objectivity, especially when descriptive themes are used.
• Prone to subjective interpretation, people tend to be studied indirectly. So the communication they produce is usually analysed outside of the context within it occurred.