How to use Generative AI to Assist the Analysis of Qualitative Data

This guide discusses the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools in qualitative analysis. There is a growing body of research which has used programmes like ChatGPT and other OpenAI software to analyse qualitative data. This has been justified because GenAI can produce summaries of large amounts of data which resemble human-created output. This guide offers an overview of the options available to researchers and discusses some of the implications of their use. There is an active debate about whether such tools are appropriate and if so how to ethically and practically implement them into a qualitative analysis workflow. This guide argues that the human analyst remains central, with GenAI acting as a useful assistant. Technology will shape ‘how to do’ qualitative analysis and it is important for researchers to actively reflect upon the opportunities and challenges of using these tools within their practices