Using Nvivo Qualitative Research

Qualitative researchers work across a range of sectors to analyse structured, unstructured or semi-structured data such as interviews, surveys, field notes, web pages and journal articles, film and print media. They are interested in evaluating, interpreting and explaining social phenomena. While these activities can be undertaken without computer software, a growing number of qualitative researchers rely on a range of software packages to help manage and organise their data. This chapter considers how computer assisted data analysis is able to assist qualitative researchers. It does this by focusing on one particular qualitative software package - NVivo. The chapter takes the reader through a stepped process that is similar to many other software packages, introducing terminology that qualitative researchers need to become familiar with. The strengths and weaknesses of NVivo are outlined, many of which relate to all computer assisted qualitative software packages. The chapter finishes with set exercises for the student seeking to learn more about the NVivo program.