The CAQDAS Postgraduate Learning Model: an interplay between methodological awareness, analytic adeptness and technological proficiency

This paper presents an empirically-derived CAQDAS Postgraduate Learning Model (CPLM) that illustrates the importance of integrated learning of qualitative methodology and technology for postgraduate students. Developed from analysis of a qualitative data-set of interview transcripts, survey responses and support-session observations constructed from two previous studies, CPLM brings the fields of technology acceptance/adoption and CAQDAS together. Analysis reveals that initial enthusiasm for the potential of software is often tempered by frustrations with actual, independent use. However, despite frustrations being attributed to lack of software functionality, CPLM illustrates that successful use of CAQDAS technology amongst postgraduate students is related to methodological awareness, adeptness in the techniques of analysis and technological proficiency.