Thematic analysis in the area of education: a practical guide

This paper addresses the growing popularity of thematic analysis (TA) in education research and the lack of a comprehensive guide tailored specifically for this field. Despite the frequent citation of prominent psychologists like Braun and Clarke, there remains a gap in methodological guidance for education scholars. Through a systematic literature review of TA in education from 2014 to 2024 (n = 30 articles), this study synthesises and critiques the meaning, application and limitations of TA as discussed in relevant scholarship. The findings are used to develop a much-needed revised TA guide for researchers specifically in the field of education, highlighting the significance of this study for research practice.