Designing AI-Assisted Qualitative Research Workflows
bis
North Carolina, North Carolina
This workshop will introduce participants to a framework for considering the consequences of using generative AI in qualitative research designs and workflows (Paulus, 2023; Paulus & Lester, 2024). We will start by defining digital research workflows and how to engage in technological reflexivity throughout the design process. We will learn how to distinguish between methodological strategies and technological tactics, i.e. why researchers must first know what they want to do before choosing the best tools for doing it (Woolf & Silver, 2018). We will then discuss the genres of AI-assist technologies currently available to qualitative researchers and how to select the most appropriate platform. MAXQDA AI-Assist tools will be used to illustrate tactics currently available to researchers. Next we will consider the consequences of AI-Assisted workflows, acknowledging dilemmas such as how generative AI is challenging the essence of what it means to do qualitative work (Paulus & Marone, 2025; Paulus, Lester & Davis, 2026). Finally, we will discuss best practices for how to transparently report and evaluate researcher use of AI (Lester & Paulus, 2026). Workshop time will alternate between short lectures and demonstrations and small-group discussion and application activities. Registration and fee (refundable for UNCCH students) are required. This event is sponsored by the UNC Odum Institute for Research.