Does the Data & Methods Core assist with developing research questions?
While our team is composed of trained social and behavioral scientists across disciplines such as Psychology, Communication, and Human Development, we do not develop research questions for research teams. We expect investigators to have domain-specific expertise and to formulate their own research questions and hypotheses.
Does the Data & Methods Core offer training in qualitative data analysis (QDA) software?
No, the Data & Methods Core does not provide training on qualitative data analysis software such as MAXQDA, NVivo, or ATLAS.ti. We recommend consulting the University Library’s LibGuides for up-to-date resources and training opportunities.
Can graduate students receive support from the Data & Methods Core for their thesis or dissertation work involving qualitative or mixed methods?
The Data & Methods Core does not provide individual methods support for coursework or degree completion requirements, including master’s theses or doctoral dissertations. Graduate students are encouraged to seek guidance from their academic advisors or the Graduate College.
Does the Data & Methods Core assist with qualitative data collection, such as interviews, focus groups, or observations?
Our team may provide support with qualitative data collection only when their time and expertise are supported through appropriate funding mechanisms (e.g., as collaborators on a grant). We do not provide unfunded data collection services.
Does the Data & Methods Core offer transcription services for interviews or audiovisual data?
The Data & Methods Core does not offer transcription services. However, our team can recommend transcription strategies and tools that align with your project’s needs and resources.
Is there a fee for working with the Data & Methods Core?
Yes. We operate as a fee-based service. Your initial 1-hour consultation is complimentary. After that, our support is billed at an hourly rate, which varies depending on whether the project is funded or unfunded. Please view the updated fee structure on our website.
Can I include the Data & Methods Core in my grant proposal?
Absolutely. We encourage you to engage with us early during proposal development. We can assist with crafting methodological plans, and we are available to serve in a co-investigator or collaborator capacity when appropriate.
How do I get started working with the Data & Methods Core?
Begin by submitting an intake form on our website. After reviewing your needs, we will schedule a 1-hour consultation to discuss the project in more detail. If our expertise is a good fit, we will prepare a service agreement outlining the scope of support, deliverables, and rates.
Does the Data & Methods Core offer training in qualitative or mixed methods analysis?
While we don’t offer formal workshops or software training, we provide project-specific training and guided analysis as part of our fee-based services. This includes mentoring researchers through coding processes, analytic strategy, and interpretation aligned with your research goals.
Can I meet with someone just to see if my project is a good fit?
Yes, we offer a free, one-hour initial consultation to help determine whether your project aligns with our services and expertise. There’s no commitment required at this stage.
Do I need to be in a specific department to use the Data & Methods Core services?
No. Our services are available to faculty, staff, and research teams across the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. We also work with external collaborators on a case-by-case basis, especially in the context of funded projects.
How far in advance should I contact the Data & Methods Core team before starting a project?
We recommend reaching out at least 6–8 weeks before you need support, especially if you are preparing a grant or beginning data collection. This ensures time for consultation, planning, and contractual setup.
What level of qualitative or mixed methods experience do I need to work with the Data & Methods Core team?
No prior experience is required. We work with both novice and experienced researchers and tailor our support based on your team’s background, goals, and needs.
Can your team help respond to peer reviewer or funding agency comments on qualitative methods?
Yes. We assist in refining qualitative or mixed methods sections of resubmissions and can help you address methodological critiques from reviewers or funders.
What happens after I submit an intake form?
Once you submit the form, we will contact you to schedule a free, one-hour consultation. After that meeting, our team will determine the appropriate scope of support and provide a draft service agreement. Once the agreement is signed, we begin work on your project.
What does the service agreement include?
The agreement outlines the scope of services, estimated hours, deliverables, and billing structure. This ensures shared expectations and allows for transparent, project-specific planning.
How much time should I plan for qualitative or mixed methods analysis?
Timelines vary based on the size and complexity of your dataset, but qualitative and mixed methods analysis typically requires more time than quantitative analysis. We will work with you to develop a realistic timeline and deliverable schedule based on your project goals.