THEMATIC ANALYSIS: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF ITS PROCESS AND EVALUATION

THEMATIC ANALYSIS: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF ITS PROCESS AND EVALUATION

December 2012 | Alhojailan, Mohammed Ibrahim
This paper critically reviews the use of thematic analysis (TA) in qualitative research, comparing it with grounded theory (GTA) and hermeneutic analysis. It highlights the lack of clear descriptions and issues in the literature regarding concepts, processes, validations, and clarifications used by researchers. Thematic analysis is described as a comprehensive process that allows researchers to identify cross-references between data and evolving themes, providing flexibility for both inductive and deductive approaches. The paper discusses the advantages of using software for data analysis, such as NVivo, and addresses the limitations of relying solely on manual methods. It also compares GTA, which collects and analyzes data simultaneously, with TA, which can be used at any stage of the research process. Hermeneutic analysis, which focuses on interpreting the whole text and its parts, is also discussed, emphasizing its suitability for understanding organizational contexts. The paper outlines the steps of the Miles & Huberman (1994) model for thematic analysis, including data reduction, data display, and data conclusion-drawing/verifying. It emphasizes the importance of validating themes at early stages and the role of data display in enhancing understanding and reliability. Finally, the paper concludes by highlighting the flexibility and comprehensive nature of thematic analysis, making it suitable for various research scenarios.This paper critically reviews the use of thematic analysis (TA) in qualitative research, comparing it with grounded theory (GTA) and hermeneutic analysis. It highlights the lack of clear descriptions and issues in the literature regarding concepts, processes, validations, and clarifications used by researchers. Thematic analysis is described as a comprehensive process that allows researchers to identify cross-references between data and evolving themes, providing flexibility for both inductive and deductive approaches. The paper discusses the advantages of using software for data analysis, such as NVivo, and addresses the limitations of relying solely on manual methods. It also compares GTA, which collects and analyzes data simultaneously, with TA, which can be used at any stage of the research process. Hermeneutic analysis, which focuses on interpreting the whole text and its parts, is also discussed, emphasizing its suitability for understanding organizational contexts. The paper outlines the steps of the Miles & Huberman (1994) model for thematic analysis, including data reduction, data display, and data conclusion-drawing/verifying. It emphasizes the importance of validating themes at early stages and the role of data display in enhancing understanding and reliability. Finally, the paper concludes by highlighting the flexibility and comprehensive nature of thematic analysis, making it suitable for various research scenarios.
Reach us at info@study.space
[slides and audio] THEMATIC ANALYSIS%3A A CRITICAL REVIEW OF ITS PROCESS AND EVALUATION