Coding

1
Coding

• Preparing The Research for Data Entry

2
Coding (defined)

• Coding is the process of converting questionnaire
  responses into a form that a computer analysis
  software package can recognize

3
The Purpose of A Codebook

• A codebook provides a template for how the
  numerical data will be entered into the
  statistical software program

4
Tasks Necessary for Data Entry

• Create a codebook based on the research
  instrument
• Prepare completed questionnaires for data entry
• Create the codebook template using the selected
  software program

5
Step 1 How To Create a Codebook

• Start with a blank copy of the questionnaire
• Assign questions and/or response set options a
  variable name and numerical value

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Coding Decisions

• Coding decisions that should be made BEFORE data
  input begins include
• Non-responses
• Multiple responses when only one selection was
  required
• Open-ended questions

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Coding Decisions

• Open-ended questions should be assigned response
  values as closed-ended questions would
• This requires identifying consensus themes and
  assigning numerical references to each

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Step 2 Preparing Questionnaires

• Once the codebook is completed, questionnaires
  should be compiled and assigned a case number

9
Step 3 Creating A Coding Template

• A Case
• All data from one completed questionnaire
• Represented by rows on the software template
• A Variable
• Data on one question item across respondent
  questionnaires
• Represented by columns on the software template

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Step 3 Creating A Coding Template

• The Data Address
• Represents a specific respondents answer to a
  particular variable
• An intersection between a row and a column on the
  template spreadsheet

11
Smooth Coding

• Requires written instructions for consistency in
  understanding across the research team
• Training and then some
• For inter-coder reliability
• Manual, followed by digital coding

12
Other Issues In Coding

• Software
• Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)
• Data Transfer Accuracy
• Visual spot checks help avoid miscodes