Visualizing communication patterns among expert and novice counselors

Abstract

This study presents a method for visually studying professional communication patterns. Thirty verbatim transcripts of conversations between professional counselors and their clients were coded using Qualitative Data Analysis software. The visualization tools within the program were then used to create a coloured text portrait of each conversation. Text portraits were compared across counselors based on experience level. This method of studying communication patterns during in-situation conversations appears to be both powerful and effective in revealing patterns and relationships within communication events. Advantages of graphic display over traditional statistical methods are considered. ©Journal of Professional Communication, all rights reserved.