Viewing computer-assisted qualitative data analysis (CAQDAS) through Leximancer

Abstract

Stories, interviews and other narratives provide a platform for gaining insight and understanding of events and situations. Exploring these values has seen a growth in the application of qualitative research within the field of Management. Recent improvements in computer-assisted qualitative data analysis (CAQDAS) software design, if used correctly, have the “ability to support the research process” (Corbin and Strauss, 2008). Software may improve the analytical process involved at this level, yet critical thinking is still required along with the time and commitment of the researcher. It is clear that software can aid the experienced researcher in crafting their work, however, in the hands of an inexperienced qualitative researcher it can detract not only from the research being undertaken, but also from the field of qualitative research itself.

This workshop provides insight into an Australian software creation: Leximancer, and demonstrates its relevance to management research by linking theory to practice across three different research projects and hands-on activities. The primary benefit of Leximancer over most other qualitative software packages is that it links complex algorithmic analysis with aspects of psychology and language when interpreting transcript data. To delve into the pros and cons of why to use Leximancer over other software packages is not the subject of this workshop; however, users of other software will be able to compare Leximancer with their existing software experience. Insights into our choice of leximancer will be provided and the workshop builds on this by providing an opportunity for those who would like to explore the possibilities of Leximancer in a collaborative environment.

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Identifiers

ORCID for I.A. Harwood: orcid.org/0000-0002-8647-2169

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