Evaluation of Qualitative Data Analysis Software by a Visually Impaired Researcher: An Autoethnographic Study

Abstract

Although computational methods facilitate research studies greatly, academics with visual impairment cannot utilize these tools to their maximum potential. Not only do computational research methods themselves have many shortcomings, but the needs and problems encountered by researchers with visual impairment in using these tools are not identified. In particular, the use of qualitative data analysis software (Q-DAS) by researchers with visual impairment has not been thoroughly examined. Thus, the current article addresses the benefits that visually impaired researchers can gain from employing commercial Q-DAS software packages in analyzing qualitative data. Further, Q-DAS problems that researchers with visual impairments experience are discussed. In addition, the article proposes solutions by which Q-DAS utilization in studies performed by/for the visual impairment community could improve. The article has many significant contributions, not only for scholars with visual impairment but also for elderly scientists whose vision declines over time. The article addresses this topic through critical disability studies.