Analyzing Data: Approaches to Thematic Analysis

In this chapter, we focus our attention on qualitative research related to healthcare simulation. This chapter explores two related approaches to analysing qualitative data – thematic analysis and qualitative content analysis. Both of these methods are commonly used in qualitative research, and are considered relatively accessible forms of analysis. We provide a logical approach to their use offering references and a worked example. In addition to introducing the each method, we discuss how to ensure rigour and trustworthiness in your research. These issues form an essential part of any qualitative approach.

[1]  T. Fenwick,et al.  Towards socio‐material approaches in simulation‐based education: lessons from complexity theory , 2015, Medical education.

[2]  Alexis Battista,et al.  An activity theory perspective of how scenario-based simulations support learning: a descriptive analysis , 2017, Advances in Simulation.

[3]  L. Spencer,et al.  Qualitative data analysis for applied policy research , 2002 .

[4]  Nigel King,et al.  Template Analysis for Business and Management Students , 2016 .

[5]  K. Mattick,et al.  How to…write a good research question , 2018, The clinical teacher.

[6]  Virginia Braun,et al.  Successful Qualitative Research: A practical guide for beginners , 2013, QMiP Bulletin.

[7]  Alexis Battista,et al.  Activity Theory and Analyzing Learning in Simulations , 2015 .

[8]  J. E. Anderson,et al.  Review of simulation studies in anaesthesia journals, 2001-2010: mapping and content analysis. , 2012, British journal of anaesthesia.

[9]  Hsiu-Fang Hsieh,et al.  Three Approaches to Qualitative Content Analysis , 2005, Qualitative health research.

[10]  Gerard J. Gormley,et al.  Learning to manage complexity through simulation: students’ challenges and possible strategies , 2016, Perspectives on medical education.

[11]  Sarah J. Tracy Qualitative Quality: Eight “Big-Tent” Criteria for Excellent Qualitative Research , 2010 .

[12]  T. Dornan,et al.  Living with ‘melanoma’ … for a day: a phenomenological analysis of medical students’ simulated experiences , 2017, The British journal of dermatology.

[13]  V. Braun,et al.  Using thematic analysis in psychology , 2006 .

[14]  N. King Doing Template Analysis , 2012 .

[15]  H. Turunen,et al.  Content analysis and thematic analysis: Implications for conducting a qualitative descriptive study. , 2013, Nursing & health sciences.