in the end ’. To avoid this ‘ Narrative Smoothing ’ ( Kim , 2016 ) it is important to highlight to the reader that there should be an awareness for the stories not told as well as those that are . A clear indication is therefore to be included as to the narrative inquiry selections made , the possible alternative stories and other limitations that directed these decisions .
Sample
The sample was selected from a combination of purposive , convenience and volunteer sampling . That is to say the sample were Uni Connect learners in their second year on a vocational level 3 programme within the subject program areas that the interviewers worked . All level 3 Uni Connect learners within these areas were presented with the opportunity to be involved in the research . A total of 8 participants were recruited for the three semi structured interviews and this sample size was selected based on volunteer sampling .
Data Collection
Data was collected by college staff employed as teaching and learning coaches in the college used in the study . The subject backgrounds of the researchers are within the Sport and Fitness and Business programme areas . Initially due to the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus , the semi structured interviews were conducted and recorded online using Google Meet . Cameras were encouraged to be on for both interviewers and interviewees . Each round of interviews were conducted in the final weeks of each academic term , December , April and July .
Data Analysis
A Grounded Theory approach to the analysis was utilised , with codes developed naturally from the transcripts ( Glaser & Strauss , 2017 ). NVivo 12 Plus software was used to facilitate the coding and analysis of the transcripts . Two researchers coded a set of transcripts independently , but due to time pressures instigated due to Covid , not all transcripts were coded by more than one researcher . The use of a number of coders would have potentially increased the validity and reliability of emergent themes ( Ryan , 1999 ). Following coding seven of the most frequently identified themes were chosen for analysis and discussion .
To ensure a sound level of objectivity in data analysis , all information collected was transcribed , coded and utilised to prevent any bias and misrepresentation of the data ( Cohen , Manion , and Morrison 2018 ). Pseudonyms have been given to each of the participants to
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