1. Making Sense of Data: Qualitative Analysis Basics Tammy Horne, Ph.D. WellQuest Consulting Ltd. (780) 451-6145 thorne@wellquestconsulting.com www.wellquestconsulting.com

2. Analysis Basics: Qualitative Qualitative analysis -- meaning often emerges from data during analysis – whereas quantitative analysis is mostly planned ahead However, past research and experience can still be a guide to qualitative analysis 9/17/20152

3. Analysis Basics: Qualitative Analysis starts while we’re still collecting data We can adjust based on early learning (e.g., sample more or fewer people; different types of people; modify questions to explore issues in more depth) 9/17/20153

4. Analysis Basics: Qualitative Coding – labelling ‘chunks’ of data – e.g., interviews with parents’ group may have codes like ‘meeting people’, ‘avoiding isolation’, ‘feeling supported’, ‘making new friends’, etc. Compare new codes to prior codes as we go – Do they fit? Are more codes needed? Would we re-label any codes to broaden or narrow them? 9/17/20154

5. Analysis Basics: Qualitative Check codes with other coders for consistency Coding and looking for categories and themes is a process of constant comparison We can group categories into broader themes – e.g., ‘avoiding isolation’ category could become part of broader ‘social support’ theme 9/17/20155

6. Coding Example Fewer cigs a day Pride in self Struggle Tempting Situations ( Phone, Smoking Friend) Confidence Strength I only had four cigarettes today. I think that’s pretty good. This time last week I was still smoking at least 10-12 a day. But it’s still hard sometimes – especially when I’m on the phone or over at Sue’s. She still smokes a lot. But I know I can quit. Every day I’m feeling more able to resist the urge to smoke. I’m getting stronger. 9/17/20156

7. 7 CATEGORIES AND THEMES: RURAL STAY-AT- HOME PARENTS NETWORK Meeting PeopleAvoiding Isolation Children Meet Children Make Friends SOCIAL SUPPORT CHILDREN Children's Behaviour Children's Activities Feeling Supported Developing New Children's Influence Discussions About Friendships on Mothers' Participation Children Physical Activities Learning New Organizational Problems Facilities Activities ACTIVITIES Variety in NETWORK Activities PROCESSES Discussing Health Community Suggestions for Promotion Issues Involvement Improvement