A quasi-qualitative investigation of strategies used in qualitative categorization

Author(s): Wiersma, N., Starkwroblewski, K.

Journal/Book: J Couns Psychol. 1996; 43: 750 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242. Amer Psychological Assoc. 502-509.

Abstract: This study investigates how analysts approach the task of initially categorizing qualitative data, what analysis strategies increase or decrease the testimonial validity of the categories, whether the data should be presented as a whole or in meaningful units, the effects of analysts' familiarity with the material, and the cognitive strategies associated with testimonial validity judgments. Thirty upper level undergraduates analyzed essay data for ''themes'' while engaged in a think-aloud task. The essay writers then ranked the sets of categories in terms of overall quality acid rated them on dimensions relevant to testimonial validity while thinking aloud. Think-aloud protocols for the ''best'' and ''worst'' approaches are examined. Implications for the use of qualitative research methods are discussed.

Note: Article VS-Card K Chwalisz, So Illinois Univ, Dept Psychol 6502, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA

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