Template analysis is a qualitative data analysis approach centered around creating and using a structured coding template.
Based on the provided reference, template analysis involves the development of a coding 'template', which summarises themes identified by the researcher(s) as important in a data set, and organises them in a meaningful and useful manner.
Understanding the Core Concept
At its heart, template analysis is about bringing structure to qualitative data by identifying recurring patterns and ideas. These patterns, referred to as themes, are then organized hierarchically or thematically within a flexible 'template'.
Key Components of Template Analysis
The definition highlights the essential elements of this method:
- Developing a Coding 'Template': This is the central tool. It's not a rigid, pre-defined structure but rather something that evolves during the analysis process. It serves as a framework for categorizing and organizing the data.
- Summarising Themes: Researchers actively read and engage with the data (like interview transcripts, field notes, etc.) to identify key topics, concepts, or experiences that appear important or relevant to the research question. These identified patterns become the 'themes'.
- Organising Themes: Once themes are identified, the template is used to structure them. This organisation should be logical and helpful for interpreting the data and addressing the research aims. Themes might be nested under broader categories or arranged in relationships that make sense within the context of the study.
The Process in Practice
While the definition is concise, it implies a practical process:
- Initial Familiarisation: Reading through the data to get a general sense of its content.
- Preliminary Coding: Starting to identify potential themes and initial codes.
- Developing the Template: Grouping codes into themes and arranging them into a preliminary template structure.
- Applying the Template: Systematically coding the entire dataset using the developed template.
- Refining the Template: As analysis progresses, the template is reviewed, modified, and refined. Themes might be added, deleted, merged, or re-organised to better fit the data and the emerging understanding.
- Final Analysis and Interpretation: Using the structured, coded data to write about the findings and draw conclusions.
Why Use Template Analysis?
This method offers a balance between structure and flexibility. It provides a clear framework (the template) to manage potentially large qualitative datasets while allowing for the iterative process of theme identification and refinement that is characteristic of many qualitative approaches. It's particularly useful for studies aiming to provide a detailed thematic description of a phenomenon.
