This series of workshops introduces how Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) can support and enhance qualitative and mixed-methods research approaches.

The workshops explore methodological considerations in choosing software, and approaches to combine analytic strategies with software tactics.

Qualitative Analysis Strategies

Consideration is given to the following methodological approaches, positioned as 'analytic strategies', which are explored in terms of how they can be supported through 'software tactics' utilising the features and tools of particular packages:

• Grounded Theory
• Thematic Analysis
• Narrative Analysis
• Discourse Analysis
• Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
• Conversation Analysis and other Ethnomethodological approaches
• Actor-Network Theory

Other methodologies are also explored – please contact the convenor if you have specific needs or requirements.

Software Packages and Tactics

The following different packages and their features are explored in different workshops:

Low-cost “QDA light” software packages: Quirkos and F4 Analyse

These support basic coding, memoing and basic retrieval available at low cost to students – including Quirkos and F4 Analyse and open up opportunities for participant involvement in the analysis process.

Industry Standard CAQDAS packages: ATLAS.ti and NVivo

Sessions introduce and develop approaches to using the two powerful packages available with a site license for Lancaster Students: ATLAS.ti and NVivo on both Mac and PC.

Delivery Mode

These workshops are delivered in blended mode and are available for both on-campus and distance learning research students. Numbers are limited to 12 per workshop for on-campus students, unrestricted for distance learners.

The workshops are available to research students from all faculties.

Working with Big Qualitative Data: Leximancer

Leximancer is introduced as a package to work with large qualitative datasets (including 1000s of articles or other data) for semi-automated thematic and sentiment analysis.

Further information and sign up

Please go to the registration page and follow the instructions on screen to sign up, access further information, view schedules for the academic year and sign up for the modules that meet your needs.

The aim of this workshop is to enable postgraduate research students to gain skills in practical research ethics when applying for ethics review for their research fieldwork.

This workshop is part of the Faculty of Health and Medicine Postgraduate Training Programme offering a range of lively, interactive workshops to provide opportunities for research skills training. The short interactive skills based session is delivered by FHM staff with experience as members of the FHM Research Ethics Committee. The session will complement the Researcher Development Framework (Vitae, 2010).

The workshop, based on a well-established existing postgraduate research ethics module, will enable students to develop their 'ethical mindset' when designing fieldwork including understanding concepts of research ethics governance, identifying key ethical issues relevant to their specific research area and considering effective ways to address ethics at each stage of the research. All participants will have instruction in where to locate and how to complete the full ethics application relevant to their research.

Outline content

• Basic concepts of research ethics governance
• Developing an 'ethical mindset' appropriate for your research field
• Identifying key ethical issues and requirements in your research
• Locating and working with the relevant ethics review application forms
• Writing supporting documents
• Ethical data management from collection and analysis to storage and deletion
• Ethics in dissemination

Delivery Mode

Participants attend two half day face-to-face interactive workshops set one week apart to allow the completion of an individual practical task.

This workshop is open to research students from all faculties with a particular relevance for those undertaking research in health or medical settings.

Further information and sign up

For information on dates and to book your place, please email fhmpgoffice@lancaster.ac.uk.

In previous years, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (in the Faculty of Science and Technology) ran a short courses programme. In the year 20-21 this will not formally run following the increased teaching resources required to switch to a blended and remote learning environment. However, any PGR student wishing to audit any of the courses on either the MSc Statistics or MSc Data Science programmes may do so. You can register your interest in one or more modules here.