AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

3.6.3.3. Initial coding
Each transcript was analysed using the initial coding described by Charmaz (2006).
She says this is the stage where the researcher seeks to begin to understand what the
data is describing, what does it suggest and from what point of view. She suggests
working at a word-by-word and line-by-line basis to find actions within the data
whilst staying as closely as possible to the participants’ voices. A global issue for all
the transcripts related to the nature of AAC-mediated conversations. As well as
working at a close level to preserve the actions of the participants, it was also
necessary to take a pragmatic approach. People who use AAC tend to create short
phrases in real-time conversations. This can mean that reaching a joint understanding
of an event sometimes spreads across several conversational turns. Creating meaning
may require input from a supporting communication partner who is familiar with the
total communication of the person using AAC. As the participants were present when
conversational partner comments were made it is assumed there was agreement
(unless stated otherwise).
The advantage of initial coding identified by Charmaz (2006) is that it allows a
researcher to think about material in new ways. As it is being scrutinised at such a
minute level it can help avoid seeing the obvious superficial meaning of text.
Charmaz (2006) urges a researcher to remain open minded and sensitive to the data
and let knowledge flow. She states the necessity to set aside any prejudice that may
have arisen from the literature review. I had an advantage in this regard as there is a
lack of data on this specific topic. The nature of AAC-mediated conversations
described earlier (sections 2.2.5 and 2.2.6.) is reflected within the transcripts as
participants’ responses often contained single words or very short phrases so working
at a word-by-word level was important as meaning was often hidden within
unexpanded dialogue. Emergent initial codes were carried through to subsequent
interviews.
3.6.3.4. Focused coding
Focused coding is explained by Charmaz (2006) as the second major phase of the
coding process. She says this is the stage where the researcher starts to explore
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