Coding in discovery research

A topic in research methodology

Coding is usually the first phase in data analysis, where codes are assigned to features in the data.

The origin of the codes used is usually distinct in confirmatory research (where predetermined codes are often derived form the conceptual framework before data collection), and in discovery research (such as in grounded theory studies) where the codes are derived from the data itself: open coding.

Coding in discovery research:

Discovery research is concerned with theory generation (i.e., it is an inductive process) rather than hypothesis testing.

Coding has been described within a grounded theory perspective as

“Coding: The analytic process through which data are fractured, conceptualized, and integrated to form theory”

Strauss & Corbin, 1998, p.3

This has several stages, sometimes described as open coding, axial coding and selective coding.

An inductive process

Coding in interpretive research is usually seen as part of an inductive process – “working from the data of specific cases to a more general conclusion” (Schwandt, 2001: 125).

“‘Qualitative’ research… tends to be seen primarily as an inductive approach using a research question and moving from instances gained in the data collection to some form of conclusion, often via comparison with existing concepts or theory. Questions tend to be exploratory and open ended and data are often in narrative form.”

Grbich, 2007: 196

“Inductive analysis … builds theoretical categories, instead of sorting data pieces deductively into pre-established classes. The units of analysis or data segments are not predetermined, but are carved out from the data according to their meaning.”

Tesch, 1990: 90

Sources cited:

• Grbich, C. (2007). Qualitative data analysis: an introduction. London: Sage.
• Strauss, Anselm & Corbin, Juliet (1998) Basics of Qualitative Research: Techniques and procedures for developing grounded theory, Thousand Oaks,California: SAGE Publications.
• Schwandt, T. A. (2001). Dictionary of Qualitative Inquiry (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, California: Sage Publications.
• Tesch, R. (1990). Qualitative Research: Analysis types and software tools. Basingstoke, Hampshire: The Falmer Press