CAQDAS and its diffusion across four countries: national specificities and common themes
Article Abstract:
The use of Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) is becoming more common in qualitative sociological research. CAQDAS packages are designed specifically for social science purposes and are not readily accessible outside the research community. They are more commonly used in the UK and Germany than in Canada and France, because of the prevalent social science traditions of each country. Their spreading usage has raised concern about whether their capabilities will change the qualitative research process. By facilitating review of broad data sets, CAQDAS could lead to shallower data analysis.
Publication Name: Current Sociology
Subject: Sociology and social work
ISSN: 0011-3921
Year: 1996
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Computer-assisted qualitative data analysis in Germany
Article Abstract:
Sociological research in Germany was predominantly quantitative until the mid-1970s, when qualitative research gained popularity. Gradually qualitative researchers began to use computers for data analysis. Three Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) packages were developed in Germany to support different research approaches in the social sciences. WinMAX was developed as a practical way to generate variables from a mass of textual data. ATLAS/ti was written to facilitate textual analysis by linking codes, text and comments with concepts. Aquad was developed to test hypotheses.
Publication Name: Current Sociology
Subject: Sociology and social work
ISSN: 0011-3921
Year: 1996
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Diffusion of a methodological innovation: CAQDAS in the UK
Article Abstract:
The UK is a good place to study the effects of the diffusion of Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) packages because qualitative sociology is strong there. The small size and high mobility of UK social researchers have encouraged CAQDAS diffusion. A case study of CAQDAS introduction to University of Surrey students shows that they consider CAQDAS as simply another research tool and use it appropriately. Use of CAQDAS has stimulated debate on qualitative research methods because most software appears biased toward a grounded theory approach.
Publication Name: Current Sociology
Subject: Sociology and social work
ISSN: 0011-3921
Year: 1996
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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