Researchers

Professor Peter Elias, Mr Rob Jones

Institute for Employment Research,
University of Warwick

1 June 2003 - 31 May 2005.

Context

The project builds upon earlier software developments (CASOC) undertaken by the proposer. The current project will update this software, create a new product for industry coding and provide an 'open' framework for researchers to elaborate other complex classifications in a structured manner.

Aims and Objectives

• Develop software for coding of relevant text to two major classifications (SIC92 and SOC2000);
• To test, validate and refine these software products, utilising current and large-scale datasets;
• To provide an 'open' software coding product that will allow users to construct a tool for the coding of relevant text to a defined classification structure.

Methodological aspects of importance

The project will facilitate the application of key classifications in applied social scientific research. The development of such software, and the programme of testing and validation proposed by the Office for National Statistics, will assist in promoting best practice methods for coding relevant text to these complex classifications.

Research Design

The research will be carried out in four stages.

Development work will commence with the production of an occupational coding tool, the production of an industry coding tool, an 'open' coding tool and a combined occupation/ industry coding application.

The Office for National Statistics has agreed to undertake tests of these products and will include these in a wider evaluation of computer coding tools

Outputs

• Four software products which will be freely distributed via the web;
• A 'coding and classifications' teaching/ learning module to improve knowledge about coding methodology;
• A short course on research methods which incorporated this module.