Coding qualitative data – principles and practice (5 ECTS)

Prerequisites

Enrolled as a PhD student

Objective

With successful completion of the course, students will be able to demonstrate an ability to:

• discuss the principles of coding qualitative data

• discuss recognized challenges and criticisms of coding qualitative data

• acquire know-how and ability to apply a chosen methodological approach to coding qualitative data

• conduct actual coding of qualitative data, demonstrating knowledge and ability with different techniques and tools.

Content

The course will be structured in four integrated blocks: 1) methodology of coding qualitative data; 2) practice of coding in different qualitative methods; 3) practical training in QDA software; and 4) analysis of participants’ own or provided qualitative data. 

The course includes two introductory seminars, with assigned preparatory readings; three QDA software training workshop seminars, including Qualcoder and NVivo programs; and 1-2 project seminars, where participants will discuss and present their own coding analyses.

Examination

Examination will be based on a final presentation and paper.

Contact for application and further information

Inquiries and application to the course should be sent to Richard Ferguson, SLU Department of Economics, via richard.ferguson@slu.se

Applications should be written in English and include:

• name, affiliation, full address, e-mail and phone number

• name and affiliation of PhD supervisor

• short description of PhD project (0,5-1 page)

Literature

Course book: Saldaña, J. 2025. The Coding Manual for Qualitative Researchers. 5th ed. Sage Pub.

Additional open access articles and papers presented at course introduction (1-5 works).