Course Overview

Discover how AI can be a sophisticated partner in your qualitative research work. This course supports both AI novices and experienced users and builds practical competencies for using AI tools across the qualitative research lifecycle, from deidentifying data, generating research questions to conducting thematic and sentiment analysis. By the end of the course, you will have a clear ethical framework and hands-on experience with leading AI platforms.

What You Will Learn

Participants learn how to apply AI to qualitative methodologies in practical, responsible ways. The course explores deidentifying data, prompt engineering for research question development and AI-assisted coding techniques, and it builds confidence using AI for thematic and sentiment analysis. Participants also strengthen their ability to maintain confidentiality, reduce biases, and ensure accuracy and transparency while integrating AI tools into qualitative research practice by configuring a reusable project workspace, with custom instructions and a persistent knowledge base, that supports ongoing qualitative work beyond the session.

Course Format

This interactive course is offered as one 3-hour online session or a half-day in person. A short set of pre-recorded segments covering tool setup, and privacy settings is provided in advance so that more live time is spent on analysis. The session combines an instructor-led demonstrations and hands-on exercises in small groups. Participants practice with Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini Notebook (formerly NotebookLM); locally run open-source models are covered through demonstration and discussion.

Module Breakdown

The session begins by exploring where AI can support qualitative research across the full research cycle, including a live de-identification demonstration and generating and refining research questions. Participants then work through practical applications for qualitative methodologies, including prompt engineering and AI-assisted coding techniques. Through demonstrations and hands-on exercises using realistic, synthetic research data, participants practice with ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini Notebook. Additionally, open-source models like Gemma are demonstrated. The session also emphasizes best practices for mindful AI integration, with a focus on maintaining confidentiality, reducing biases, and ensuring accuracy and transparency.

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for professionals conducting qualitative research and analysis who want practical skills to integrate AI tools into their workflow. It is appropriate for both AI novices and experienced users.

Prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites, but this course builds on foundational AI knowledge rather than introducing it. To get the most out of the hands-on exercises, participants should have working access to Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini Notebook.