Singapore University of Social Sciences

Qualitative Data Analysis

Qualitative Data Analysis (ABS352)

Synopsis

ABS352 Qualitative Data Analysis will introduce students to the theory and basic techniques of collecting, interpreting, and analysing qualitative data. It is designed to provide students with an understanding of and basic training in qualitative research. Throughout the course, we will learn about the theoretical approaches to various types of qualitative research as well as the practical techniques of data collection. We will cover issues such as when to apply qualitative research; the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research; how to connect theory, research design, and data collection and analysis; how to go about collecting data; how to process and analyse data; and how to present findings.

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every January

Topics

  • Qualitative research: its history and logic
  • Approaches to qualitative research and ethical concerns
  • Designing qualitative research: choosing a research topic and a research strategy
  • Designing qualitative research: sampling
  • Fieldwork research: ethnography
  • Observation and qualitative interview
  • Finding patterns
  • Identifying themes and coding
  • Memoing and mapping
  • Grounded theory analysis
  • Reliability and validity
  • Writing up

Learning Outcome

  • Apply concepts and theories from multiple disciplines to the systematic, scientific study of human behaviour
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the processes for conducting qualitative research
  • Develop an appreciation for the ethical issues inherent in conducting qualitative research
  • Propose, design, and execute an independent qualitative research project
  • Collect and analyse sources of qualitative data to recognise patterns and infer insights
  • Interpret and present research findings effectively
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