DATA 2040: Text and Qualitative Data Analysis
This course provides an overview of the tools most commonly used to analyze data from textual or qualitative sources such as written or digital text, interviews, focus groups, and opened-ended survey questions. Both manual (i.e., by hand) and software analytic approaches will be explored. For each type of analysis, the underlying theory, assumptions, and mechanics of how each analytical tool works, are discussed, along with appropriate interpretation of results. The course is designed for students from any major with real-world examples drawn from the humanities, social and behavioral sciences, business, and government. Students of all skill levels are welcome, including those with limited or no statistical, mathematical, or programming backgrounds. All analysis skills will be taught in class.
Course Goals
- Know the key components of text and qualitative data analysis and be able to define the key concepts in these types of data sources.
- Understand the range and variation in sources of text and qualitative data.
- Understand the theoretical and methodological traditions that guide contemporary text and qualitative analysis.
- Become skilled at a variety of methodologies for analyzing and interpreting text and qualitative data.
- Become proficient with software for text and qualitative data collection and analysis.
This 3 credit hour course has no prerequisites and is open to all students. Sections are taught by CAIDS Professor of Practice, Lisa Dilks.
Ready to take this course?
Search for "DATA 2040" in the Schedule of Classes to register. For more help with registration, please review the resources provided by the Registrar's Office.
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