AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

encompasses methods which are independent and can be used across a range of
theoretical and epistemological stances. They say thematic analysis falls within this
second camp and offers flexibility to the researcher. They say it is a useful method by
which to create a rich thematic description of the entire data set.
The data from the pilot investigation was coded through a six step approach of
thematic network analysis described by Attride-Stirling (2001). She explains how her
approach is based on some of the principles of argumentation theory (Toulmin, 1958,
cited by Attride-Stirling, 2001). Argumentation theory seeks to explore meanings
within explicit and implicit statements by deconstructing the elements of a negotiation
to examine how the original statements (data) are moved forward to make a claim
(thus revealing the logic behind that progression). Her thematic network analysis uses
this theory as the background but has redefined and adapted the method to create a
qualitative data analysis system that seeks to explore
“the signification of an idea, rather than to reconcile conflicting definitions”
(p. 387).
The decision to use thematic analysis at this stage of the project was based on the
desire to create a rich analysis of the pilot data rather than a substantive grounded
theory (Goldbart & Marshall, 2004; Marshall & Goldbart, 2008). As explained by
Attride-Stirling (2001) this approach is useful for seeking the significance of ideas.
The transcript was coded to reveal meaningful segments of test which were marked
according to the issue addressed and called quotes. During the second stage, these
quotes were checked and amended or re-labelled if necessary. During the third stage
the data was re-assembled by using the quotes to create Basic themes, these were then
grouped under more abstract Organising themes, which were finally grouped under
the umbrellas of Global themes which reflected the outstanding issues within the data.
Stage four involved the creation of four thematic networks with their relevant Global,
Organising and Basic themes (appendix L). These were shared with the participant
who confirmed they were a good representation of the interview and had relevance for
people who use AAC. They were also presented at the annual Communication
Matters conference (Hynan, 2011a) with supporting quotes and the audience was
76