GRACE Epi Monthly Methods 9: Analysing Big Qualitative Data: Current Methods and Future Directions

In this webinar, we heard from Dr Norha Vera San Juan, Social Epidemiologist and Institutional Lead for King's College London at the NIHR Research Support Service, and Dr Sam Martin, Digital Sociologist and Social Data Scientist at Manchester Metropolitan University. The presentation, "Analysing Big Qualitative Data: Current Methods and Future Directions." explored the concept of big qualitative data and provided an overview of current approaches used to analyse large qualitative datasets, drawing on findings from the speakers' recent systematic review of the field. The presentation discussed the strengths and limitations of different approaches, including the role of digital tools and AI-assisted methods (SDR UK fellowship), alongside the importance of preserving the depth and contextual richness that characterise qualitative research. Speakers also presented the LISTEN method as an example of an integrated approach to big qualitative data analysis, and described the rationale behind its development, illustrated its application across multiple research contexts, and shared findings from a recent evaluation of the method in practice. The presentation concluded with practical reflections on when these approaches are most useful, current challenges, and priorities for future methodological development. Find out more about the GRACE-Epi Monthly Methods series on our website: https://sbbresearch.org/grace-epi-mon.... 00:00 Welcome 05:08 Dr Norha Vera San Juan & Dr Sam Martin 34:37 Q&A