Free Webinar: What Counts as a Theme and Why it Matters in Qualitative Research

Feb 5, 2026 | Blog, Free Webinars & Resources | 0 comments

By Claire Moran

Date: Thursday, 5th March
Time: 10-10.45am GMT
Location: Online

Register here

Overview

Themes are everywhere in qualitative research, but what they mean depends on how you’re doing analysis.

In this practical, theory-informed session, Dr Claire Moran will unpack the confusion around what counts as a “theme” in qualitative research and explore why so many researchers struggle to move from codes to meaningful findings.

You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how themes work and why that matters for rigour, coherence, and conceptual clarity.

What we’ll cover

Drawing on examples from reflexive TA, phenomenology, and narrative research, we’ll explore:

  • Why “theme” means different things across methods and methodologies
  • How to recognise the difference between topic summaries and interpretive themes
  • Common analytic traps, especially in the write-up stage
  • How to use TA to clarify what themes do, not just what they label

Who should attend?

  • PhD students and early-career researchers
  • Qualitative researchers using or teaching TA
  • Research teams applying TA in applied or academic settings

Why join?

If your themes feel vague, flat, or overly descriptive, you’re not alone. This session offers clarity on a concept that’s too often assumed and underexplained.

We’ll also share details of the upcoming Reflexive TA Masterclass opportunity for those ready to go deeper.

Spots are limited!  Register now to secure your place

Have questions? Feel free to reach out: claire@clairemoran.com

See you there!

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