Using Qualitative Data Analysis Software to Help Explore Critical Research Questions: A Tool, Not a Replacement

Qualitative research includes various and often large amounts of data (e.g., audio from interviews, interview transcripts, video, and archival documents). Moreover, education scholars tend to explore research at many levels of policy and practice (e.g., classroom, schools, districts, communities, state and federal). Qualitative data analysis software can be a great tool to help researchers organize data and identify existing nuances and complexities. Yet this software can also be used mechanically, compromising researchers’ potential to address critical research questions. In this chapter, we offer a review of the scholarship, critical approaches, benefits and shortcomings, and practical recommendations for scholars who rely on qualitative data analysis software, particularly those conducting critical-leaning research. Overall, we aim to discuss how both novice and experienced researchers who are new to qualitative data analysis software can use this software as a tool to enhance their critical analysis.