Chapter 8 discusses the various ways in which a qualitative researcher can analyze and represent data. Creswell notes that data analysis is much more than looking at text and images, but “organizing the data, conducting a preliminary read-through of the database, coding and organizing themes, representing the data and forming an interpretation of them.” (179) He then goes on to explain each of these steps in depth.

There are three prevailing analysis strategies that are outlined in a table on page 181. While they all take a slightly different approach, they all contain the “core elements of qualitative data analysis,” namely, coding the data, creating themes and making comparisons in tables or charts. (180)

Crewswell likens the data analysis process (despite which strategy is used) to a spiral. A visual representation of the spiral is on page 183. The spiral begins with organizing the data, reading and memo-ing it, and then moves to classifying the data in to codes, interpreting it, and creating visual representations.

Creswell discusses the spiral in depth through pages 182 – 188. He calls particular attention to the forming of codes or categories, which he calls the “heart of qualitative data analysis.” A researcher creates codes by aggregating text or visual data into small categories. This process is described as  “winnowing.” where not all data is used, but only that which is relevant, as beginners tend to create long lists of codes, when only “lean coding” is needed. (184) Throughout coding, researchers are encouraged to look for themes, broad units of code that share a common idea. (186)

Only once themes are created can a researcher begin to interpret data. (187) Once the data is interpreted, it must be represented in a table or figure. Different ways to visualize data are discussed on 187 & 188.

Creswell describes how the data spiral can be used within the five approaches to inquiry. A table summarizing each approach can be found on pg. 190 & 191. Phenomenological, grounded theory and ethnographic analysis use structured methods established by qualitative researchers in the field. The narrative and case study approach allow for more flexibility in data analysis, while still following the basic structure of the spiral.

Creswell provides an overview of the use of computer programs to perform qualitative research, including the advantages and disadvantages of using this technology (pg 201-202). Specifically, four commercial programs are discussed in this chapter. The software programs mentioned are MAXDA, ATLAS.ti, QSR NVivo and HyperRESEARCH. Additionally there are flowchart templates to demonstrate the application of computer coding related to the five approaches (pg207-209). There is also some guidance provided on how to choose the right program for your research on page 209.

Overall qualitative computer programs assist the researcher in analyzing text and image data, through the use of coding and categorizing. It is similar to a cataloging process. It is important to note that the software does not give meaningful testing results or provide summary info, but rather is an easier way to store and search through data, providing a visual picture of the themes created through the use of coding.