Testing hypotheses on qualitative data -: The use of HyperRESEARCH computer-assisted software

HyperRESEARCH is a computer-assisted software program for analyzing qualitative data. This article describes the analysis strategy of the hypothesis-testing component of the program. The Hypothesis Tester allows a researcher to generate a theoretical framework inductively from their data, or to test out a preexisting set of theoretical ideas on a given data set deductively. The hypothesis-testing component of HyperRESEARCH provides a semiformal mechanism for theory building and hypothesis testing. It provides for validity and reliability checks by having the researcher describe the inference process used to draw conclusions from the data. The article discusses the theoretical and data analysis implications of using the Hypothesis Tester for qualitative research. Future additions to the program are presented that promise to revolutionize the way that qualitative research is conducted.