A coding system for qualitative studies of the information-seeking process in computer science research

Introduction. In this article we propose a qualitative analysis tool ?a coding system - that can support the formalisation of the information-seeking process in a specific field: research in computer science. Method. In order to elaborate the coding system, we have conducted a set of qualitative studies, more specifically a focus group and some individual interviews, and have analysed their results. Analysis. We provide a detailed description of how the qualitative studies were performed and how the subsequent analysis, refining and validation phases were carried out until we obtained the proposed coding system. Results. The coding system is presented as a list of hierarchically categorised codes that try to cover the full information-seeking process performed by researchers in computer science. In order to facilitate the understanding and later use of the codes, we also include a detailed description of each, together with real examples of use extracted from the qualitative studies. Conclusions. We present a complete list of 169 codes categorised into 13 categories that can help other researchers to analyse further qualitative results related to the information-seeking process, both at the process level and at the user level. In our case, these codes will be in the near future the seed to design a system that can adapt its functionality, visualisation and interaction based on the task at hand, the user and the context of use

The uses of qualitative data in multimethodology:Developing causal loop diagrams during the coding process

In this research note we describe a method for exploring the creation of causal loop diagrams (CLDs) from the coding trees developed through a grounded theory approach and using computer aided qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS). The theoretical background to the approach is multimethodology, in line with Minger’s description of paradigm crossing and is appropriately situated within the Appreciate and Analyse phases of PSM intervention. The practical use of this method has been explored and three case studies are presented from the domains of organisational change and entrepreneurial studies. The value of this method is twofold; (i) it has the potential to improve dynamic sensibility in the process of qualitative data analysis, and (ii) it can provide a more rigorous approach to developing CLDs in the formation stage of system dynamics modelling. We propose that the further development of this method requires its implementation within CAQDAS packages so that CLD creation, as a precursor to full system dynamics modelling, is contemporaneous with coding and consistent with a bridging strategy of paradigm crossing

Supporting Computer-supported collaborative work (CSCW) in conceptual design

In order to gain a better understanding of online conceptual collaborative design processes this paper investigates how student designers make use of a shared virtual synchronous environment when engaged in conceptual design. The software enables users to talk to each other and share sketches when they are remotely located. The paper describes a novel methodology for observing and analysing collaborative design processes by adapting the concepts of grounded theory. Rather than concentrating on narrow aspects of the final artefacts, emerging “themes” are generated that provide a broader picture of collaborative design process and context descriptions. Findings on the themes of “grounding – mutual understanding” and “support creativity” complement findings from other research, while important themes associated with “near-synchrony” have not been emphasised in other research. From the study, a series of design recommendations are made for the development of tools to support online computer-supported collaborative work in design using a shared virtual environment