Investigative Discourse Analysis

Too often, written statements, emails, transcripts of interviews and letters are seen as simply pieces of documentary evidence to be maintained until final disposition. To the uninitiated, they are only useful at face value — as simple records, sworn narratives and archives.

In the second edition of Investigative Discourse Analysis, Rabon and Chapman demonstrate that these verbatim sources of information can be applied to the process of inquiry on much deeper and effective levels. Through systematic analysis these reservoirs of information can enhance an understanding of precisely what has been communicated. From structuring the flow of the inquiry to planning the subsequent interviews, the ability to analyze discourse is a skill that has proven time and again to enhance the opportunity for a positive examination outcome.

This most recent edition presents additional types of documentation suitable for analysis. Additionally, the synergistic analysis of multiple documents is addressed. Terminologies and analysis conceptualizations have been adapted for even more pragmatic application.

Lastly, practical exercise modifications have been incorporated to enhance the learning process and ultimately, the application.