The transcriptions were then entered into the computer. Verbatim notes from the classroom observations also were stored in the computer. Compiling computer files that represent the thousands of sheets of paper necessary for recording the observations and interviews is a critical step, but the usefulness of files depends on the ease with which information can be retrieved. By having information readily available in an organized fashion it is possible to establish trends with much greater confidence than if every general statement required a new review of all of the field notes. Moreover, illustrating particular points by reference to especially vivid or characteristic examples can be accomplished much more readily through computer files than through field notes.
Computer programs exist for the analysis of ethnographic data if key words are supplied.
To make easy retrieval possible, a list of key words was assigned to each topic prior to the beginning of fieldwork. These lists were based on the items in the questionnaires and on the researchers knowledge of the three cultures in which they would be working. Each list was developed by the field researchers assigned to investigate the same research topic. For example, the field researchers dealing with individual differences agreed upon approximately 30 key words for the material related to teachers responses to individual differences. The majority of the interviews were held with pupils, teachers, and parents, but also with policymakers, education authorities, and other persons engaged in the education enterprise.