The last decade has seen major advances in computer-aided methods to support qualitative data analysis. A choice of software tools and forms of computer-aided analysis is now open to researchers. This development poses a new range of questions, such as: Will the software employed 'take over' the analysis? Can computers be used to improve reliability and validity? Can computers make the research process more transparent and ensure a more systematic analysis?

This book examines the central methodological and theoretical issues involved in using computers in qualitative research. International experts in the field discuss various strategies for computer-assisted qualitative analysis in a clear and comprehensive manner. They outline strategies for building theories by employing networks of categories; means of evaluating hypotheses generated from qualitative data; and new ways of integrating qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques.

Computer-Aided Qualitative Data Analysis offers an invaluable guide to the rapidly developing arena of research practice. It will be essential reading for researchers and graduate students across the social sciences who are engaged in qualitative research.