Collaborative open analysis in a qualitative research environment

Abstract

One goal of open science is making research processes like analysis more open and traceable. To contribute to this aim, we designed an open digital research environment based on Semantic MediaWiki technology to be used for the qualitative collaborative analysis method of objective hermeneutics. The environment was used in university seminars in which students learned the analysis method in a research-based learning setting. This article examines added values of open analysis in learning and teaching of qualitative research methods. It outlines the potentials of the environment like guiding students through digital structures, and retracing the collaborative interpretation processes, but as well discusses the pedagogical boundaries of open online collaborative work.