AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

inging the fractured data together to build more conceptual ideas and bring
coherence to the initial codes. At this point the data was downloaded onto Nvivo 9.0
(a qualitative software programme). Some commentators have reservations about
using computer analysis for grounded theory research as they fear it may crystallise
forms of tacit understanding of textual material (Kelle, 1997). However, many
researchers also support the use of computer software as it can be very useful for
organisational, ordering and structural management.
The advantages I found from using Nvivo 9.0 were two-fold. Firstly, it allowed me to
identify the frequency of issues arising in the initial codes and to start conceptualising
my emerging ideas. Secondly, I was able to easily display the data on multiple levels
and cross-examine the codes between different interview transcripts. It also allowed
for easy manipulation and movement of coded data and I found this supported raising
the initial codes into higher categories to create the focused codes.
3.6.3.5. Theoretical coding
Charmaz (2006) describes theoretical coding as the process by which the focused
codes are brought together to express the possible relationships that exist between
them to create explanatory categories. This is the stage when the researcher begins to
generate the story of the data. Charmaz (2006) describes how the earlier substantive
analysis through initial and focused coding can help to indicate the kind of theoretical
codes that will be invoked. She explains emerging categories can draw from many
areas of the data, they may be fairly explicit in what they describe or they may be
more abstract referring to a sociological concept. The theoretical codes should be
reflective and interpretative of all the data. Charmaz (2006) describes theoretical
codes as
“integrative; they lend form to the focused codes you have collected” (p.63).
Corbin and Strauss (1990) use alternative terminology for Charmaz’s (2006)
theoretical coding stage defining it as ‘selective coding’. They describe it as the
process by which
“all categories are unified around a central “core” category [which] represents the
central phenomenon of the study. (p.424)
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