DB #4 Coding Qualitative Data Student Replies

Gerald Steckmeister

Coding Overview

                In qualitative research, data coding refers to the process of labeling the data gained from the research in way that helps extract meaning. (Liberty University, 2022). Coding comes after the data collection phase, and it begins the data analysis phase (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). Coding should be done as soon as possible after the data collection (Liberty University, 2022).

Coding Strategies

                The researcher should read the data several times. According to Ng and Coakes (2014), the first time is for the researcher to develop and overall understanding of the matter. The second time is to look for themes and patterns by highlighting phrases and taking notes. Finally ,the third and subsequent readings are to ensure that nothing was missed (as cited in Liberty University, 2022).  

Glesne (2016) recommended that the first reading be done quickly in order to develop the basic meaning. One strategy she noted was to code line-by-line. Key words and phrases can then be assigned as codes (Glesne, 2016). The codes should be reviewed for themes or patterns. The researcher can than look for linkages or causal effects between the codes. Codes can then be collapsed into broad themes (Creswell & Creswell, 2018).

Benefits of Coding

                Coding allows the researcher to extract deep meaning from the data (Liberty University, 2022). Coding allows the researcher to use common themes to make connections between the stories between different participants (Glesne, 2016). Individuals are unlikely to use the same exact Although there is specific software for coding (Glesne, 2016; Liberty University, 2022), it actually does not require any special equipment or assets. In fact, coding can be also be done with highlighters and Post-It notes (Woodall, 2016), or even Microsoft Word (Peach, 2014).

Dangers and Limitations

                The researcher should not code data prematurely (Liberty University, 2022; Woodall, 2016). The process cannot begin until the researcher has gained an understanding of the data collected. It would be a mistake to code as the data was being collected. A researcher might try to fit new data into an already established code, even if it did not necessarily fit. Furthermore, coding is subjective and two researchers are unlikely to come up with the same codes (Liberty University, 2022). This is very different from quantitative research where exact matches are not only possible, but they are also expected. In fact, if the same researcher may not use the same codes if he or she looked at the data at a later time. This is because codes are a product of the researchers perspective and perspectives change over time as the understanding of a topic changes.

                Another issue is that the researcher may have lost the meaning or context of the data if too much time passes between collection and coding (Liberty University, 2022)

Christian Worldview

                Coding helps us to learn new information and ideas from the data. This is consistent with the teaching of the  English Standard Bible (2016)  which states: “let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance” (Proverbs 1:5). In addition, Titus 2:1 commands us to use sound doctrine. Finally, Proverbs 3:13-14 states “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold.

Conclusion

                Coding is a great way to extract deep meaning from one’s data. It also allows a researcher to connect the various lived experiences of different participants by establishing common themes. However, researchers should remember that coding is intensive and taking shortcuts is not advisable. While coding is powerful, like any technique it has strengths and limitations.