Exploring dialogic analysis and thematic analysis of place conversations with older adults

Abstract

Purpose

Although thematic analysis is a commonly used technique, this paper aims to explore the potential advantages (and drawbacks) of both thematic analysis and a dialogic approach to qualitative data analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, the epistemology and application of each design, thematic analysis and dialogic analysis are compared. Then, examples of coding segments of narrative data from 85 open-ended interviews with older adults exploring the meaning of place and place-attachment are presented through both thematic and dialogic analyses.

Findings

The conclusion offers suggestions about how dialogic analysis can add additional context and more participant inclusion and agency to thematic analysis.

Originality/value

The blending of these two qualitative analysis approaches offers better emphasis on fully presenting older individuals’ narratives.

Citation

Weil, J. (2023), "Exploring dialogic analysis and thematic analysis of place conversations with older adults", Working with Older People, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 211-218. https://doi.org/10.1108/WWOP-07-2022-0026