Auxilium Sodality equips 2nd-year students with thematic analysis skills in qualitative research webinar

Report by Mary Ruth Orendain

Second-year students of TSU-Human Services took part in a lecture series webinar spearheaded by Auxilium Sodality titled, "Themes Uncovered: A Comprehensive Guide to Thematic Analysis,” which featured Mr. Jhulen Macapinlac, RPm, who shared his knowledge on thematic analysis in qualitative research on March 3, 2025, via Zoom Meeting.

Mr. Macapinlac explained the fundamentals of coding, including its steps, different types, and methods for data analysis. He stressed the need to thoroughly familiarize oneself with the data, thus advocating for repeated transcripts reading to enhance thematic analysis comprehension and accuracy.

“Kailangan natin ireview–kailangan natin basahin nang basahin ‘yong transcriptins natin, we have to immerse ourselves in the data to understand the content and context of our raw data, and from that magkakaron na tayo ng initial coding,” Mr. Macapinlac advised.

He further elaborated on the process, saying, “We are breaking the data, all segments, and mag-aassign tayo ng label doon sa idea or context [...] that’s the time wherein we are grouping the related concepts or related quotes para makabuo tayo ng specific category para ma-establish natin yong relationship nila.”

Mr. Macapinlac also discussed the importance of identifying central themes while further exploring their key differences between the coding methods. He then provided relevant examples, like students’ academic pressure, which ensured that students could effectively grasp the concepts presented in the discussion.

During the webinar, he outlined its significance in human services research, noting its ability to uncover complex issues and provide deeper insights into participants' perspectives.

“We all know na research is more than just numbers—more than statistics, it’s for the people,” Mr. Macapinlac stated, reinforcing the human-centered approach of qualitative research.

In an interview, second-year Human Services students expressed their appreciation for the webinar, stating that it provided significant insights relevant to his academic requirements.

“Nakatulong yung webinar kahapon dahil swak s'ya sa requirement namin sa course na HS8, which is yung intervention, at makakatulong s'ya sa future kasi I'm sure hindi lang eto yung research na iko-conduct namin,” Neo Samoy of BHS 2A shared,

Meanwhile Kristine Facun of BHS 2-1EVE shared, “To have a wider insight and knowledge about thematic analysis since some students are new to this. And this will benefit us because we can apply it not only today but also in the coming years when we can do research.”

The webinar proved to be a valuable learning experience to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for conducting qualitative research, particularly in their future academic and professional endeavors.