NVivo

NVivo is a member of a class of computer software commonly referred to as qualitative data analysis software (QDAS). It was developed to serve the needs of researchers working with nonnumerical, unstructured data, otherwise known as qualitative data. NVivo also integrates with quantitative software tools, making it a valuable tool for mixed methods research. Qualitative research is employed by many educational scholars, program evaluators, and practitioners. Increasingly, QDAS tools like NVivo bring coherence and clarity to studies in this area. This entry provides a detailed explanation of the ways NVivo is structured; information on applications to educational research, measurement, and evaluation; understanding of the historical context; and consideration of the challenges and future for NVivo.