by Katherine Fritz ¹

• ¹ The Johns Hopkins University

This course emphasizes the analysis of ethnographic and other forms of qualitative data in public health research.

Course Description

This course emphasizes the analysis of ethnographic and other forms of qualitative data in public health research. We introduce various interpretive analytic approaches, explore their use, and guide students in applying them to data. We also introduce the use of computer software for coding textual data (Atlas.ti). Students analyze data they have collected as part of fieldwork projects initiated in 410.690 and write up the results in a final paper. Classroom sessions include lectures, discussions, intensive group work related to the fieldwork projects, and instruction in the computer lab.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• describe various styles of interpretation of qualitative data
• articulate the relative appropriateness of different analysis approaches for a particular qualitative study
• apply one or more analytic approaches to data they have collected and write an analysis paper
• describe special issues in ethics for qualitative research
• manage qualitative data files effectively to ensure ease of use and participant confidentiality
• use the basic and intermediate functions of a computer software program for coding of textual data