Discourse structure of software explanation: Snapshot theory, cognitive patterns and grounded theory methods

Abstract

This thesis introduces a grounded theory of the discourse structure that professional software engineers use while explaining software. The 'Snapshot Theory' relates how the snapshot is the critical moment and fundamental building block in the discourse structure. We built Snapshot Theory by applying a rigorous qualitative data analysis research methodology, known as grounded theory, on observational data of professional software developers explaining software architectures. We developed a research methodology, qualitative analysis tools and case data in support of our investigation. We present two versions of our theory, the grounded theory tied to evidence, and our interpretation of the applied theory in pattern form, as cognitive patterns. We intend cognitive patterns to facilitate the development of software tool features based on Snapshot Theory.