Grounded Theory

A qualitative research methodology in which theory is systematically generated from data through iterative coding, categorization, and comparison rather than testing a pre-existing hypothesis. In accessibility and HCI research, grounded theory is commonly used to analyze interview transcripts, observation notes, and other qualitative data to uncover themes and patterns in how people with disabilities experience technology and daily activities. The approach uses techniques like open coding, axial coding, and constant comparison to build explanatory frameworks directly from participant experiences.