There is a shared analysis has developed and is continuing to develop as the analysis proceeds. Each research team works with the tools available to them. The analytical approaches correspond to the research foci of the study.
Analytical Tools
- Studiocode is a video analysis software program that allows detailed analysis of video data. This program is used by Deakin University and Edith Cowan University research teams in their analysis of the video data.
- Inqscribe is a simple transcription software that works well with video data sources. It has proved particularly useful for translations
- NVivo is an analytical tool for analysing interview data.
- Wordle – a software program that converts text into visual representations. It provides a pictorial representation of words – indicating the frequency and variety of the vocabulary used.
Analytical Approaches
Capturing the characteristics of quality teaching
- An initial broad brush analysis of the class environment – classifying the situation as WCA – whole class activity, SGA Small group activity or ISA Individual student activity was done for each lesson that was conducted in each sequence of lessons that comprise the case study.
- Exploration of the lessons structures in comparison to the 5E’s teaching and learning model has been undertaken for some cases, examining the sequencing of classrooms activities in individual lessons and across sequences of lessons to identify patterns.
- Exploration of individual lessons and lesson sequences in relation to the primary activity as described by the researcher
- Identification of Quality Teaching Moments QTM – that illustrate quality teaching are selected to demonstrate particular teaching strategies and approaches
Comparison of teacher response to student input
- Argumentation analysis of the dialogue in QTM in excerpts from various cases studies from three countries. Evidence is sought for the teacher’s support of reasoning, (requests for claims and backing etc).
- Analysis of the teachers repeating and/or revoicing of the students responses to their questions teachers – to better understand why they use this technique and what effect it has on student’s understanding.
Use of multi modal representations
Analysis of the use of semiotic resources in the lesson – when and how they are used
Use of gestures
Analysis of the use of gestures by the teacher – when and how they are used
What do we mean by ‘culture’? What do we mean by quality?
A comparison of the learning environments offered in the cases from three different countries; looking at the similarities and differences with respect to the different expectations and requirements in the various countries; looking for characteristics of quality, characteristics of culture etc.
Methodological issues
The impact of the researcher’s perspective – checks and balances across cultures and across researchers
Checking meaning and understanding among researchers – the issue of accurate translation across languages