Lecture Notes: Analyzing Data Using ATLAS.ti

Introduction

• Purpose: Demonstrate how to analyze data with ATLAS.ti, focusing on coding processes.
• Previous Video Recap: Covered importing data, developing demographic variables, and creating containers for research questions.

Coding Overview

• Definition of Coding: Process of identifying significant information in data and developing codes/themes to address research questions.
• Types of Coding:
  • Content Analysis: Pre-determined codes guide the search for significant information.
  • Thematic Analysis: Significant information in data informs the development of codes/themes.

Coding Process in ATLAS.ti

• Initial Setup:
  • Create containers for research questions.
  • Develop codes under respective research question containers.
• Significant Information: Any data that assists in addressing the research questions.
• Tagging: Assigning a phrase (2-5 words) to represent significant information.

Coding in ATLAS.ti

• Opening the Desktop Version:
  • Open project (e.g., "burnout").
  • Organize transcripts and preliminary codes.
• Coding Steps:
  • Double-click to open a transcript.
  • Identify significant information with the research question in mind.
  • Create new codes or utilize existing ones by applying them to selected data.
  • Use containers for unrelated but relevant findings.

Best Practices

• Research Question Focus: Code by research question, not interview questions.
• Code Naming: Use 2-5 word phrases; avoid broad one-word codes.
• Memo Creation: Reflect on data analysis; document thoughts using the memo feature.

ATLAS.ti Coding Tools

• Code In Vivo: Use participant's own words for coding.
• Suggested Codes: System-generated code suggestions based on selected data.

Data Organization

• Drag and Drop Codes: Organize codes under respective research questions.
• Renaming and Deleting Codes: Adjust as needed for clarity and relevance.

Example of Thematic Analysis

• Develop Codes from Significant Information: Identify connections between codes and data.
• Code Application: Apply new or existing codes to data segments.

Finalizing Coding

• Review: Check all coded transcripts to ensure proper organization.
• Significance of Numbers: Indicating amount of information linked to each code.

Conclusion

• Coding Strategy: Applicable to document analysis and literature reviews.
• Next Steps: Future video on categorizing codes into themes using code groups.

Questions and Future Content

• Encourage questions for clarification.
• Upcoming video on developing themes.