Qualitative Data Analysis: A User Friendly Guide for Social Scientists

by Ian Dey

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.

300 pages, Paperback

First published March 11, 1993

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not that anyone's interested in picking up a handbook for qualitative data analysis for summer reading,

But if you are...

Then I would recommend this book. Disclaimer: like most qualitative data analysis books, it is long-winded. And I got really tired of the Woody Allen case study by the end.

That said, the book offered some really thoughtful, but practical, frameworks for thinking about and practicing qualitative data analysis. Gee, no kidding?