Heroic Coding: A New Method for Apocalyptic Scenarios

Abstract

This article aims to describe a new coding and data analysis method for qualitative researchers, especially in education and health inquiry. We label this method Heroic Coding, a proposal for understanding the role of education and health personnel in apocalyptic scenarios. We propose this method as a subtype within Literature and Language Coding methods described in Saldaña’s The Coding Manual for Qualitative Researchers. Heroic Coding employs, in the first cycle coding, an eclectic strategy and, in the second cycle, an elaborative strategy to refine conceptual dimensions about heroes and heroic subjectivities. This article uses a data set from empirical research in education policy enactments to illustrate Heroic Coding in action. Furthermore, we reflect on future possibilities and limitations of this coding method for qualitative research in apocalyptic conditions.