Harnessing ChatGPT for Thematic Analysis: Are We Ready?

V Vien Lee; Stephanie C C van der Lubbe; Lay Hoon Goh; Jose Maria Valderas

doi:10.2196/54974

journal article May 31, 2024

Harnessing ChatGPT for Thematic Analysis: Are We Ready?

V Vien Lee

Stephanie C C van der Lubbe

Lay Hoon Goh

Jose Maria Valderas

Journal of Medical Internet Research Vol. 26 pp. e54974 · JMIR Publications Inc.

View at Publisher Save 10.2196/54974

Abstract

ChatGPT (OpenAI) is an advanced natural language processing tool with growing applications across various disciplines in medical research. Thematic analysis, a qualitative research method to identify and interpret patterns in data, is one application that stands to benefit from this technology. This viewpoint explores the use of ChatGPT in three core phases of thematic analysis within a medical context: (1) direct coding of transcripts, (2) generating themes from a predefined list of codes, and (3) preprocessing quotes for manuscript inclusion. Additionally, we explore the potential of ChatGPT to generate interview transcripts, which may be used for training purposes. We assess the strengths and limitations of using ChatGPT in these roles, highlighting areas where human intervention remains necessary. Overall, we argue that ChatGPT can function as a valuable tool during analysis, enhancing the efficiency of the thematic analysis and offering additional insights into the qualitative data. While ChatGPT may not adequately capture the full context of each participant, it can serve as an additional member of the analysis team, contributing to researcher triangulation through knowledge building and sensemaking.

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Details

Published: May 31, 2024
Vol/Issue: 26
Pages: e54974

Authors

V

V Vien Lee

S

Stephanie C C van der Lubbe

Health Services and Policy Research Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK; Department of Family Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore

Cite This Article

V Vien Lee, Stephanie C C van der Lubbe, Lay Hoon Goh, et al. (2024). Harnessing ChatGPT for Thematic Analysis: Are We Ready?. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 26, e54974. https://doi.org/10.2196/54974

Harnessing ChatGPT for Thematic Analysis: Are We Ready?

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