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Chapter 4 Research Method
The initial codes developed and populated in step 1 were “coded on” into their
constituent parts. This process resulted in a “hierarchical coding tree”. Hence the
proposition statements were elaborated on (they went from being initial proposition
statements to outcome proposition statements) in order to acknowledge this new
hierarchical structure. An example of an outcome proposition statement is: “Resident
capacity is a factor in experiencing autonomy and is enhanced when it is encouraged
and maintained. It is about knowing the residents’ abilities and about staff sharing
control”. From the initial start list the data were also re-analysed at this point to
ensure that other key issues emerging from the data that were not in the initial start
list were not missed and were included (Appendix 15).
4.10.4.2 Memoing
Memos (description notes) were then attached to the codes in order to explain each
code and each newly developed pattern code. This stage was particularly important
for the analysis of the observations. It enabled the inclusion of all additional written
comments and reflections from the fieldwork into the analysis. Adding memos
meant that context could be added to the data sources, for example if the unit had
been short-staffed on the day of the observations.
4.10.5 Step 3: Conclusion-Drawing and Verification
This phase of analysis involved further distilling of the codes and pattern codes by
cross-checking their content and ensuring that all of the transcripts had been
accurately analysed. The data were then synthesised into coherent, well-supported
outcome proposition statements and the data were grouped into themes and sub-
themes (Appendix 16). Table 4.11 provides an example of an initial code, its pattern
codes, its initial and outcome proposition statements and its subsequent themes for
the interview and observation data analysis. An expert data analysis consultant for
the university ensured that the process was succinct and that the themes accurately
represented the findings.