Beliefs of Beginner Pedagogical Researchers about Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis

This paper explores how computer-assisted qualitative data analysis appears in the beliefs and practical work of beginner researchers. The paper outlines the advantages of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis for beginner researchers, identifies the problems that may arise during this process, and discusses the topics where software capable of analysing multi-coded data can be utilised. The investigation was conducted through structured interviews. The text corpora were processed using a combined method that incorporated theory-driven deductive and data-driven inductive processes. The following were discussed: advantages and problems with computer-assisted qualitative data analysis, and topics where software for analyzing qualitative data can be used. Constructing the main codes was followed by an inductive exploration of text segments, during which subcodes corresponding to specific meanings were assigned to the main codes. Results confirmed that the software used contributed to the systematisation of qualitative analyses, made analysis quicker, and helped with data visualisation. Problems were the time factor, technical vocabulary, program use, and user awareness. If the software is used effectively, researchers can benefit from exploring the relationship between the method used and the software's functions, as well as reflecting on the entire research process.