Research - 9 Discussion

Analysis of Field Notes and other Data Sources

by Donald Ratcliff

1. Determine Unit--such as a word, a sentence, a paragraph, time, frame, etc.

2. Code Various Units--can have multiple codes for a unit (codes are not mutually exclusive, at least at first, but work towards exhaustive coding, at least

eventually). Theory--preexisting or emergent--influences coding, but can push

self to code broadly, thus less bound by theory. May need to code same data

several times--computers definitely help.

3. Develop Categories, Subcategories, Superordinate Categories. These require definitions. Categories and definitions will probably need to be revised

many times as you continue analysis. Keep track of the revisions and reasons for

revisions of categories and definitions in theoretical notes (revisions occur

because data indicates that previous definitions were not sufficient).

4. Give Examples of Categories in your theoretical notes, indexed specifically to pages, line numbers, etc. of field notes/video data/other sources of data. Include

exemplars--best examples that represent the core of the category. Also include

outliers--poor examples, but nevertheless examples of the category, as they define

the limits of the category.

5. Linkages Between Categories need to be specified, and also note the kinds of linkages involved. Consider these kinds of linkages, among others:

• Time

• Space

• Causation

• Social/Interpersonal

• [many others are possible]