Computer-Aided Qualitative Data Analysis: Theory, Methods and Practice

"Computer-Aided Qualitative Data Analysis. . . is a sophisticated presentation of topics and issues relevant to the rapidly growing field of computer-aided qualitative data analysis. . . . In many respects, the book is ′cutting-edge,′ presenting intriguing variations on qualitative data analysis techniques that are made possible (or at least manageable) through recent developments in computer applications. . . . Discussion of such foundational issues would be of value to newcomers and more experienced researchers alike, and would be consistent with the notion of a ′handbook.′. . . What Kelle and collaborators Prein and Bird have provided is a highly unique and stimulating contribution to this topic. Investigators using qualitative methods and pondering the use, implications, and potential of computers for analytic purposes should find this text to be a provocative addition to the literature." --Beth L. Rodgers in Computers in Nursing "Many of the chapters will be useful for gerontologists doing qualitative research." --T. L. Brink in Clinical Gerontologist Can computers be used to improve reliability and validity? Can they ensure more systematic analysis? Computer-Aided Qualitative Data Analysis addresses these questions and other issues in using computers to support the qualitative research process. In this volume, international experts in the field provide an invaluable guide to this complex and changing area of research practice. They discuss the impact of computer-assisted analysis, outline strategies that capitalize on the computer′s capacity to analyze large amounts of data in a short time, and offer new ways of integrating qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques. Throughout, full account is taken of the fundamental methodological and theoretical issues involved in using computers in qualitative research.