Guide to Importing Qualitative and Quantitative Data in Dedoose

Dedoose is a robust web-based platform for mixed methods research, allowing seamless integration of qualitative (e.g., text, audio, video) and quantitative data. Below, I'll walk you through the import process step by step. Before starting, ensure you have a Dedoose account (free trial available at dedoose.com) and log in to your project dashboard.

Prerequisites

• Project Setup: Create a new project or open an existing one. Go to the "Project" tab and select "New Project" if needed.


• Data Formats:


• Qualitative: Supports text (.txt, .docx, .pdf), audio (.mp3, .wav), video (.mp4, .avi), and images (.jpg, .png).


• Quantitative: Primarily CSV or Excel (.xlsx) files for variables like demographics or survey scores. Dedoose handles mixed data by linking qualitative media to quantitative descriptors.


• File Size Limits: Individual files up to 100MB; for larger datasets, split them.


• Browser Compatibility: Use Chrome or Firefox for best performance.

Step 1: Importing Qualitative Data

Qualitative data forms the core of your analysis in Dedoose (e.g., transcripts, field notes). Import it via the "Media" or "Documents" section.

• Navigate to Import Area:


• From the main dashboard, click the "Media" tab (for non-text) or "Documents" tab (for text-based qualitative data).


• Upload Files:


• Click "Import" or "Upload Media/Documents."


• Select your files from your computer or drag-and-drop them into the upload window.


• For text documents: Dedoose extracts text automatically from .docx or .pdf. For audio/video, it uploads the file and allows transcription within the platform (or import pre-transcribed text separately).


• Assign a unique Descriptor (e.g., "Interview_001") during upload—this links it to quantitative data later.


• Organize and Tag:


• Once imported, use the "Manage Media" view to add memos, codes, or excerpts.


• Tip: If importing multiple files (e.g., a batch of interviews), use the "Batch Import" option to apply consistent descriptors.


• Common Formats and Tips:


• Text: Paste directly into a new document if not uploading files.


• Audio/Video: Dedoose supports synced transcription—import the media, then add timestamps for excerpts.


• Potential Issues: Ensure files aren't password-protected; large media files may take time to process.

Step 2: Importing Quantitative Data

Quantitative data in Dedoose is managed as "Descriptors" (variables) or full datasets, often linked to qualitative media (e.g., participant age tied to an interview).

• Navigate to Import Area:


• Go to the "Descriptors" tab (for variables) or "Site/Media Descriptors" if linking to qualitative data.


• Prepare Your Data File:


• Use a spreadsheet (CSV or Excel) with rows as cases (e.g., participants) and columns as variables (e.g., Age, Gender, Score).


• First row should be headers (e.g., "ID", "Age", "Income").


• Include a unique identifier column (e.g., "Participant_ID") to match with qualitative data.


• Upload the File:


• Click "Import Descriptors" or "Upload Dataset."


• Select your CSV/Excel file.


• Map columns: Dedoose will prompt you to assign types (e.g., numeric for Age, categorical for Gender).


• If linking to qualitative data, match the unique ID from your media descriptors.


• Validate and Apply:


• Review for errors (e.g., missing values) in the preview.


• Save and apply. Quantitative data now appears as filters or charts in the "Mixed Methods" or "Quantitative" tabs.


• Tip: For advanced stats, Dedoose integrates basic descriptives, crosstabs, and visualizations—no external software needed initially.

Step 3: Linking Qualitative and Quantitative Data

Mixed methods shine when data types interconnect:

• In the "Manage Descriptors" view, use the unique IDs to associate quantitative variables with qualitative media (e.g., filter interviews by age group).


• Use the "Code" or "Excerpting" tools to tag qualitative segments with quantitative insights.


• Explore in the "Mixed Methods" dashboard: Run queries like "Word clouds by demographic subgroup."

Troubleshooting and Best Practices

• Errors: If imports fail, check file encoding (UTF-8 for CSV) or reduce file size. Dedoose logs errors in the activity feed.


• Data Privacy: Dedoose is HIPAA-compliant for sensitive data; enable project encryption if needed.


• Limits: Free version caps at 100 media items; upgrade for unlimited.


• Next Steps After Import: Proceed to coding (qualitative) and querying (quantitative). Tutorials in Dedoose's help center (under "Support") or YouTube have visuals.


• Resources: Check Dedoose's official guide at help.dedoose.com or their blog for mixed methods examples.

If you run into specific errors or need guidance on the next phase (e.g., coding or analysis), provide more details!