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1 year ago in Qualitative Analysis , Research Methodology , Thematic Analysis By Luisftun
Manual analysis of a very large dataset can be daunting. What are strategies for maintaining consistency and coherence in coding over a long period and across hundreds of pages of text?
I'm in the thick of a longitudinal study with over 80 interview transcripts. I worry that my understanding of a code I defined months ago may subtly shift, introducing incoherence. I need evidence-based tactics to maintain a stable analytical framework throughout this lengthy, iterative process, to defend the internal consistency of my analysis to my committee.
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By Amol Answered 6 months ago
Based on my experience with large narrative projects, I would recommend two non-negotiable practices. First, develop a detailed, living codebook with definitions, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and clear exemplars from your data. Update this religiously. Second, schedule regular “re-coding” sessions. I have seen researchers deliberately re-code their earliest transcripts midway through analysis. This isn't to find “new” codes, but to audit and calibrate your own consistency, documenting any conceptual drift in a reflexivity journal. This documented calibration becomes powerful evidence of your rigor for examiners.
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