Artefact analysis

• Coding

  Analysing communication through categorisation to turn qualitative data into quantitative data
• Content analysis

  Form of indirect observation where we use themes and topics to analyse artefacts

  1. Theme generation - create possible themes and categories to analyse artefact with
  2. Analysis - tally or write down themes and categories already created to analyse the artefact
• Thematic analysis

  Form of indirect observation where we analyse artefacts in order to draw out themes and topics

  1. Familiarisation - viewing the material in order to familiarise self with the content
  2. Theme Generation - creation of themes and categories as they emerge from the material, rather than preconceived ones
  3. Iteration - material is analysed again to review and refine themes, then evidence by quoting the page and line number, etc
• Strengths of Thematic analysis

  Qualitative data - more detailed so more insight

  Less researcher bias - not actively looking for themes

  Breaks down complex information
• Weaknesses of Thematic analysis

  Time Consuming

  Difficult

  Subjective

  Harder to cross analyse and compare