ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by defining the term ‘interpretation’ and examine the relationship between analysis and interpretation. It suggests ways of undertaking data interpretation, although the authors acknowledge that data interpretation is a complex iterative process, not bound by rules and easily defined strategies. While analysis requires breaking apart data to produce concepts and themes, interpretation involves translation of those concepts and themes. Analysis describes what was said, whereas interpretation attempts an explanation or translation of what underlies what was said. Some researchers find data interpretation easier than others yet, for many, interpretation is a challenge because it is not just about using particular devices or strategies; it is instead connected to understanding data in context and examining the values and perspectives of all those involved in the study. Organizing principles are defined as the categories used by people to justify, explain, defend and define themselves.
