Qualitative data analysis software in the era of artificial intelligence

Loukia-Maria Fratsea

Chapter 31 in Elgar Concise Encyclopedia of Research Methods in the Social Sciences, 2026, pp 220-227 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The use of qualitative data analysis software (QDAs) heralded a new era in the social sciences. Initially, QDA software was hailed as a revolutionary tool to manage routine tasks, allowing researchers to focus on complex analytical work. However, the software's role as a support and management tool is often confused with the method of analysis itself. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and tools such as ChatGPT, the capabilities of QDAs have expanded, reanimating the debate about the roles of the software and the researcher. This entry explores the development of QDAs and describes the key features, functions, potentials and future challenges of qualitative data analysis. It is argued that QDAs cannot replace theoretical and methodological expertise. QDAs are valuable tools that offer a range of possibilities. Ultimately, the software can support research if it is used with critical awareness and a solid grounding in qualitative methods.

Keywords: QDA; Qualitative Data Analysis; CAQDAS; Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software; Artificial Intelligence; Researcher's Role (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781803921297
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