Qualitative Data Bootcamp: Clean Collection, De-identification, and Analysis Basics

Want some focused skill development time for your qualitative practice? Get ready to take care of and analyze qualitative research data: interview transcripts, surveys oral histories, focus groups, field notes, artistic expression, photovoice and more. Qualitative methods let us understand lived experiences and motivations, see a research question from different standpoints, and highlight contexts.

This bootcamp is for those trying to get a qualitative research project off the ground who would like support on different aspects across the research lifecycle. Starting with Data Management Planning, we will discuss data management during collection, qualitative data analysis fundamentals such as conducting the analysis, and end with effective ways of sharing data and communicating results. These tangible actions will work alongside more advanced questions about ethics and uncertainty.

We’ll practice hands-on with de-identification and open-source tools such as QualCoder for qualitative data analysis and introduce some techniques that can be used. Participants are not expected to have any prior knowledge of these tools when coming into the workshop. There will be both case studies as well as opportunities to work on your project and receive feedback in the moment.

This session is great for qualitative researchers across all faculties, especially those working in Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and the Humanities. Whether you're new to qualitative methods or looking to deepen your approach, you'll find practical tools and insights to support your work.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Describe and contrast different qualitative data methodologies and be able to pick the most appropriate one for their project
2. Prepare to record quality audio and develop a workflow for mixed methods data
3. Apply some basic qualitative data analysis techniques using Taguette
4. Experiment with de-identification, recording, and transcription
5. Locate resources for data deposit and sharing of qualitative data and compare and contrast benefits and challenges

Details: Any preparatory work for the session can be found on its information page. This workshop will not be recorded.

Certificate Eligibility: This workshop is eligible for the Sherman Centre's certificate program. For more information, visit scds.ca/certificate-program. It is also eligible for the Canadian Certificate for Digital Humanities. To learn more, visit ccdhhn.ca or contact scds@mcmaster.ca.