Cognitive mapping: an analyzing method for qualitative data

[[abstract]]質性研究法需要分析大量與多變的資料，藉由認知繪圖探索質性資料，可用來收集與分析被訪問者的知覺及其想法之間彼此的關係，例如被訪問者如何思考特別的議題及在一領域內概念間彼此的相關性。更進一步來說理想的認知繪圖能被用來探索因果關係，並呈現於資料，明顯的行動及結果。整體來說，認知繪圖的技巧有助於研究者及被訪問者共同合作，找出資料結構合宜之方向、組織內容及導引分析資料。也就是認知繪圖對研究者來說是很有價值的技巧，能認定及探索其研究目的及目標。[[abstract]]The use of qualitative research methods generates a large and varied body of information requiring analysis. Cognitive mapping is a technique which can be used to capture the perceptions of research interviewees regarding the relationships between ideas, including their thoughts regarding specific issues and how concepts within a domain are interrelated. Furthermore, ideas cognitive mapping can be used to explore the causal and other relationships expressed in the data, and to highlight actions and consequences. Overall, the ability of this technique to help structure, organize, and analyze data enables both interviewees and researchers to cooperate to begin to negotiate a suitable development direction. Thus, cognitive mapping serves as a valuable technique for researchers, and can be used to identify and explore research aims and objectives