Dalkin, Sonia, Forster, Natalie, Hodgson, Philip, Lhussier, Monique and Carr, Susan (2021) Using Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS; NVivo) to assist in the complex process of realist theory generation, refinement and testing. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 24 (1). pp. 123-134. ISSN 1364-5579
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Using computer assisted qualitative data analysis software CAQDAS NVivo to assist in the complex process of realist theory generation refinement and.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution 4.0. Download (3MB) | Preview |
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Abstract
There have been several calls for more transparency in realist methods, particularly in the complex process of programme theory development and refinement. This paper will describe the way in which Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software, specifically, NUD*IST Vivo (NVivo), was used to build and refine programme theories (using literature and interview data) in a realist evaluation. This article presents the evolving and complex process of coding several data sources to nodes and child nodes, whilst writing ‘attached memos’ to highlight the process of theory generation. In this project, NVivo helped create an explicitly documented and evidenced audit trail of the process of programme theory refinement, answering to calls for further transparency in realist anal. RAMESES I and II have provided a platform to improve transparency in reporting realist research, by developing consensus and evidence-based reporting guidelines. We propose that the use of NVivo in realist approaches can help structure the iterative and by nature ‘messy’ process of generating, refining and testing complex programme theories when drawing on multiple data sources simultaneously. This effectively creates a structured track record of the analytical process, which increases its rigour and transparency in the analysis process.
Item Type: | Article |
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Uncontrolled Keywords: | Qualitative, NVivo, CAQDAS, realist, Evaluation, Theory |
Subjects: | B800 Medical Technology B900 Others in Subjects allied to Medicine L900 Others in Social studies |
Department: | Faculties > Health and Life Sciences > Nursing, Midwifery and Health Faculties > Health and Life Sciences > Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing |
Depositing User: | Elena Carlaw |
Date Deposited: | 28 Apr 2020 14:38 |
Last Modified: | 16 Dec 2020 15:49 |
URI: | http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/42944 |
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