Qualitative Data Analysis: A User-Friendly Guide

By Ian Dey

Book Overview

First Published in 2004. Learning how to analyze qualitative data by computer can be fun. That is one assumption underpinning this introduction to qualitative analysis, which takes account of how computing techniques have enhanced and transformed the field. The author provides a practical discussion of the main procedures for analyzing qualitative data by computer, with most of its examples taken from humour or everyday life. He examines ways in which computers can contribute to greater rigour and creativity, as well as greater efficiency in analysis. He discusses some of the pitfalls and paradoxes as well as the practicalities of computer-based qualitative analysis. The perspective of "Qualitative Data Analysis" is pragmatic rather than prescriptive, introducing different possibilities without advocating one particular approach. The result is a largely discipline-neutral text, which is suitable for arts and social science students and first-time qualitative analysts.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 041505852X
• ISBN13: 9780415058520
• Release Date: November 1993
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 300 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.2" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

in general a good book, but gets repetitive by the end

I read this book as part of an advanced qualitative research methods course. I enjoyed this book especially at the beginning, but by the end Dey's ideas and writing becomes redundant and tedious to read. I found I had to read past the "humor" examples Dey uses as his data and apply the ideas to my own research projects/data. It wasn't hard to do, though, so I think others can do the same and enjoy the ideas in this book as much. While the book is not a "how-to-guide" for qualitative data (there will never be such a guide), this book has great ideas for beginners and even experienced researchers.