What is grounded theory?

Grounded theory is a research approach that involves forming a theory based on gathered data, rather than starting with a theory and then collecting data to test it. This means the theory is directly "grounded" in the data.

Imagine the data as seeds you plant in the ground. Just as you do not know what kind of plant will grow until you water the seeds and observe them, in grounded theory, the data guide the formation of the theory as it emerges.

The coding process in grounded theory

Coding is a central part of grounded theory, where researchers systematically analyse the data to identify patterns and build initial categories. This process involves considering the data in minute detail.

Initial coding

Initial coding involves examining the data in fine detail. Researchers go through the material line by line, sentence by sentence, or paragraph by paragraph, repeatedly asking key questions to uncover meaning.

Key questions in initial coding:

• What is this about?
• What is being referenced here?

Selective coding

Once initial categories are established, selective coding narrows the focus. This involves selecting one central category as the "core" and linking all other categories to it.

The goal is to create a single, cohesive storyline that explains the data. There is a key belief in grounded theory that such a core concept always exists within the data, providing a unifying thread for the entire analysis.

Memoing in grounded theory

Memoing is the practice of writing detailed notes and reflections that act like extensive marginal comments.

Memos start off very open in the early stages. As the analysis advances, they become more targeted, often centring on the core category.

Using integrative diagrams in grounded theory

Integrative diagrams are visual tools, or any form of graphic, that are used to organise and connect ideas during theory development in grounded theory.

Types of integrative diagrams:

• Concept maps
• Directed graphs
• Simple cartoons - These can act as quick summarising devices.

These diagrams are most effective when created collaboratively in group sessions, where team members can interact and share ideas to increase insight.

Ending a grounded theory study

Grounded theory studies continue until theoretical saturation is reached. This occurs when no new properties, dimensions, or insights emerge from the data, categories are well-developed, and the relationships between categories are established and validated.

The process could theoretically continue without limit, but theoretical saturation provides the criterion for when data collection and analysis can conclude.