UES ‘Autocoder’

We are aiming to create an autocoder that is ◦ Useful◦ Accurate◦ Flexible, and◦ Cost effective (for build and updates)

The framework and core programming for the autocoder should work across all related surveys with an annual update of the codebook

2

Vision for the autocoder…

The autocoder will be able to

Code large volumes of verbatim material (approximately 118,000 records for the UES)

Create an output that can be uploaded to the National or Institutional data files as coded numeric responses

Support codebook customisation at an institutional level

Display coded data in the form of frequency tables and customised charts, and

Allow full access to the complete, coded verbatims.

04/19/2023Footer Text 3

What does this mean in practical terms…

To address functionality issues associated with previous customised approached to the coding of qualitative data, a new tool has been designed in Microsoft Excel using Visual Basic Automation.

The tool consists of two elements: a macro-enabled Excel template; and a codebook for each open ended question.

04/19/2023Footer Text 4

‘Platform’

In very general terms, we use a two stage process to code the UES data:

Bottom-up grounded theory approach where responses are explored and coded by the qualitative team

Top-down application of the UES constructs to the resulting thematic groups

04/19/2023Footer Text 5

Coding process

04/19/2023Footer Text 6

Approach to codebook build