How does descriptive coding compare to other approaches?
Descriptive coding is one method among several qualitative coding approaches used by qualitative researchers to categorize and make sense of data. Comparing descriptive coding to other approaches can clarify its unique features and help in selecting the most suitable coding method for a study.
Interpretive coding
Interpretive coding explores the underlying meanings and themes within the data. Unlike descriptive coding, it involves analyzing not just what is said but what is implied, exploring deeper insights and patterns.
While descriptive coding focuses on summarizing the explicit content with straightforward labels, interpretive coding requires the researcher to read between the lines and infer significance beyond the surface level. Compared to descriptive coding, this approach is more analytical and subjective, aiming to uncover the broader implications and contexts of the data.
Values coding
Values coding identifies the values, beliefs, attitudes, and personal perspectives expressed by participants. Values coding captures the emotional and ideological components of the data, highlighting what participants consider important or meaningful.
Unlike a descriptive code, which summarizes the basic topics or content, a values code helps the researcher understand the motivations and worldviews that shape participants’ responses. This approach to qualitative coding provides insight into the cultural and social factors influencing the data.
In vivo coding
In vivo coding uses the actual words or phrases from the participants as codes. This technique preserves the original language and terminology used by the participants, ensuring that their authentic voice is maintained in the analysis.
A descriptive code differs from an in vivo code by employing the researcher’s own words to label data segments, summarizing the content rather than quoting it verbatim. In vivo coding is particularly useful when the participants’ specific language is significant to the research question.
Process coding
Process coding emphasizes actions and sequences, using gerunds (action words ending in -ing) to capture activities, behaviors, and processes over time. This method is ideal for studies focused on routines, phases, or developments. While descriptive coding categorizes topics or subjects, process coding highlights how things happen, providing a dynamic view of data.
