NVivo is a software program used for qualitative and mixed-methods research and is the leading tool for qualitative analysis. Specifically, it is used for the analysis of unstructured text, audio, video, and image data, including interviews, focus groups, surveys, social media, and journal articles. Qualitative data is difficult to gather and process, but with NVivo, you can import data, documents, and notes; code content; analyze data with queries; and visualize your results with NVivo’s charts and diagrams.
Here are some highlights on why you should use this tool available to all faculty:
Provides an organized and structured approach to analysis
Keep track of (and review transcripts as you import them into a project, see how far you have progressed with coding, and make notes of emerging ideas (via memos) as you code.
Everything is stored in one place
When you set up an NVivo project, everything is imported into one database, allowing easy access to all your information when needed. It also means that the file can be easily backed up and is portable.
Work effectively with different types of qualitative data
If your project requires mixed methods research it is helpful that I can analyze across different data formats utilizing the same thematic (node) structure. Easily import journal articles and other PDFs and compare what your participants reported with the existing literature on the topic.
Sub-group analysis made easier
While marking up themes with highlighter pens on paper copies of transcripts can still be useful, it can get overwhelming with a large number of participants, while also exploring responses by different sub-groups within your sample. NVivo has some fantastic features such as matrix coding queries that allow you to easily do this.
Become a more efficient researcher
NVivo can save you time during both the analysis and write-up phase. You can extract information across selected criteria with the push of a few buttons, and when you are drafting your thesis or report, there’s the capacity to easily insert verbatim text directly from your NVivo project.
NVivo is one of many IT services available to Bobcats and can help faculty with their research. Get started on the Texas State NVivo webpage.
Chantal Lesley is a marketing and communications specialist student employee in the IT Marketing and Communications office.
