Corpus Linguistics as a Research Method in Nursing: A Practical Approach to Analysing Language Data

Aim

To highlight the use of corpus linguistics for analysing language data and to provide a worked example of this approach in nursing research.

Design

Methodology discussion paper.

Methods

This paper introduces corpus linguistics as a distinct approach to undertaking qualitative research in nursing. Examples are provided to illustrate how corpus linguistics can be applied to explore contemporary concepts in healthcare.

Conclusion

Corpus linguistics offers a structured, robust alternative to traditional qualitative analysis. When combined with critical social theory, it is ideal for exploring power dynamics and discourse, making it a valuable approach for nursing and healthcare related research.

Implications for Nursing

Nurse researchers often work with large amounts of textual data. Corpus linguistics provides a rigorous framework for analysing such data sets, which can be used for various studies.

Impact

Corpus linguistics analytics can enhance nursing research by uncovering language use patterns that can help generate knowledge to inform nursing practice and policy development.

Patient or Public Contribution

None.