The process of categorization of information in the company of triangulation, allows to validate the information obtained in some types of qualitative methodology research. In this article of the Online Thesis blog, we will explain how to elaborate the categorization in an investigation.

In this sense, the various types of Action Research, as well as ethnographic and ethnomethodological research, use the process of categorization of information to analyze the results of their studies.

It is important to know how the categorization of information can be applied to triangulate categories and what approaches can be used to create the categories that will be analyzed.

This is because in qualitative research, theoretical foundations are usually based on social practices used as mechanisms of action to improve the reality that is to be transformed.

What is a category?

A category is a topic of research that will be taken into account to categorize qualitative information and validate it by analyzing the results of the information.

The author María Albert explains that categories are a kind of conceptual drawers in which information is stored.

In addition, this researcher alludes that prior to the creation of the categories, the units of analysis must be identified. These can be considered units of meaning and have to be considered from spatial, thematic, temporal, grammatical and social criteria.

If, for example, ethnographic research is being carried out to evaluate how university professors apply evaluation processes, the following could be considered:

  • Evaluation concept.
  • Evaluation procedures.
  • Role of evaluation.
  • Criteria for validating learning.

What is a subcategory?

A subcategory, as its name suggests, is an element that arises from a category. It serves to deepen around it. This is because it allows you to detail some more specific details that are directly related to it.

Categories provide answers to questions as to form. That is, how, where and why some phenomenon that is being analyzed as a form of category can occur.

Taking as an example the ethnographic study mentioned above, it will have several categories from which, some subcategories will arise:

Thus, as far as the category of evaluation concept is concerned, it will have as subcategories theoretical conceptions and practical implications.

The category called evaluation procedures, can have as subcategories Evaluation instruments used and frequency of evaluation events.

Also, the role of assessment is a category that can give rise to subcategories such as the role in the university system and role in the classroom.

The learning validation criteria is a category that can have among its subcategories correction criteria and qualification criteria.

3 alternatives to elaborate the process of categorization of the information

Although the process of categorization of information is usually used to give validity to research, the choice of the best alternative will be established based on the development of the research. Thus, it will take into special consideration the data collection techniques with which it worked.

According to the data collection techniques that were used, you can choose the best type of categories. As a result, you can opt for the following classes of categories:

1. Use deductive or aprioristic categories

They are the tentative categories that are mainly framed in some aspects such as the conceptual framework and the questions and objectives raised in the research.

These are usually very useful for those who are beginning to carry out qualitative studies and want to carry out a categorization process that is duly substantiated. It is recommended that they distinguish which are the central topics that serve to focus the research.

For this, they can use some information collection techniques such as observations, interviews, discussion groups, textual analysis of a semiotic nature and life stories. They can perfectly be applied in qualitative studies.

2. Formulate inductive or emergent categories

These are categories that arise entirely from data based on the examination of patterns and recurrences.

3. Establish abductive categories

They are called in this way to those categories that originate from anomalous or surprising events, which by their nature, require the use of concepts or rules that are unknown.

The categorization of the information will allow the analysis of the results of qualitative research. These respond to specific needs of society in order to transform environments to improve present conditions.

In this sense, analyzing the process of elaboration of the research requires a deep reflection and internalization. This will be done in order to conceive each of the categories that are generated taking into account the entire trajectory of the research. Especially with regard to the voice of each of the subjects who were part of it.

Where can you help me categorize the information?

If you need help with the categorization of your research information, on our Online Thesis page, you can find the best methodological advisors, who are professionals specialized in carrying out different types of research.

We guarantee that you will have the help in everything that refers to how a thesis is made. This way you can carry out the organization and categorization of the information,

so that the analysis of the results is facilitated when doing the triangulation process in your research.

So to find out how much a thesis costs,visit our website and contact us through our contact form or if you prefer, you can write to us via WhatsApp or Messenger.

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How to categorize information in research

How to categorize information in research

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