QualiBuddy: an online tool to improve research skills in qualitative data analysis
ISSN: 1443-9883
Article publication date: 13 November 2017
Issue publication date: 13 November 2017
Abstract
Purpose
Novice researchers experience difficulties in analysing qualitative data. To develop the skills necessary for qualitative data analysis, theoretical manuals are often insufficient. Supervisors supporting students in analysing qualitative data stress the need for practical guidance, including exercises and feedback. The purpose of this paper is to present and discuss QualiBuddy, an interactive online support tool in answer to this need.
Design/methodology/approach
An online support tool was developed in answer to existing problems regarding analysing qualitative data. The tool provides a learning trajectory of 11 stages of analysis, which all contain examples, exercises, feedback, verification questions and questions for reflection. This tool is developed from a multidisciplinary perspective and is constructed around various steps. During the development process, internal feedback from the members of the project team, as well as external feedback from an international steering group with experts in qualitative research were taken into account.
Findings
The tool QualiBuddy is based on an empirically and theoretically grounded approach to qualitative data analyses. Pilot tests with experienced qualitative researchers suggest that the tool potentially allows novice researchers from various domains to develop and improve their skills in conceptualising interview data, specifically within a grounded theory approach.
Originality/value
QualiBuddy is a newly developed interactive online education tool based on and complementary to existing guides for qualitative data analysis.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful to the members of the external steering committee, in particular: Angelique de Rijk, Mieke Grypdonck, Dimitri Mortelmans and Sofie Verhaeghe, to Geraldine Clarebout and to all the participants in the pilot for their contributions, feedback, comments and suggestions. Their input contributed significantly to the final result of this project. This project was financially supported by the KU Leuven, Educational projects 2013.
Citation
Mertens, E., Heylighen, A., Declercq, A., Hannes, K., Truyen, F., Denier, Y. and Dierckx de Casterlé, B. (2017), "QualiBuddy: an online tool to improve research skills in qualitative data analysis", Qualitative Research Journal, Vol. 17 No. 4, pp. 306-318. https://doi.org/10.1108/QRJ-06-2016-0034
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited