Adult learning and the compilation and retrieval of data: A practical system for qualitative researchers

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline a process to assist adult learners and researchers to capture, streamline and retrieve data for the analysis of content from various resources of information encountered in research.

Design/methodology/approach

The system is described, including a rationale for its benefit to qualitative researchers utilising multiple sources of data.

Findings

The system is designed mainly to assist the academic expedition of postgraduate students predominantly engaged in qualitative research. It covers theoretical aspects of adult learning principles combined with a systematic method for managing qualitative data.

Originality/value

Working from the assumption that adult learners are time‐poor and likely to be working full‐time, the paper discusses these learners’ need for an efficient method of recording and retrieving information and provides a straightforward, cataloguing process which the author developed when conducting postgraduate research.

Citation

Montague, A. (2012), "Adult learning and the compilation and retrieval of data: A practical system for qualitative researchers", Qualitative Research Journal, Vol. 12 No. 1, pp. 17-31. https://doi.org/10.1108/14439881211222705