Analyzing artificial intelligence frameworks: Phenomenologists against machines

Abstract

This study was conducted to analyze the results of using generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the analysis of data in studies employing qualitative methodologies. The researchers sought to investigate the question: Can a human qualitative evaluator uncover the same themes as a generative AI bot from semi-structured interviews? A non-evaluator researcher was used to select the topic, exclusionary criteria, source of transcripts, and the transcripts to be analyzed. Two evaluator researchers then analyzed the data using Quirkos software to produce themed discoveries. A bot was used to complete the same task. The results obtained from the two evaluator researchers and the generative AI were then compared with the study conducted by Morgan (2023). The researchers concluded that a generative AI bot is a good starting point for theme analysis, but humans are still needed for nuanced analysis and emotional understanding in analysis.