Which transcription method is particularly useful for conversation analysis and identifies changes in pitch and pauses?

The transcription method known for its particular utility in conversation analysis, and which identifies changes in pitch and pauses, is Jefferson transcription. This approach was developed by Gail Jefferson, and it emphasizes the detailed representation of spoken language, allowing researchers to capture nuances in the spoken word that are critical for understanding social interactions.

Jefferson transcription includes notations for aspects such as intonation, timing, overlapping speech, and pauses, which are essential in conversation analysis. The approach enables researchers to study how participants manage their talk, respond to each other, and construct meaning through their conversational exchanges. By systematically coding these features, researchers gain deep insights into the dynamics of conversation, revealing how various elements like pitch and pauses contribute to the communicative process.

In contrast, discourse analysis tends to focus more broadly on the structure and function of language in use, and thematic analysis is aimed at identifying themes within qualitative data without the same level of detail regarding the dynamics of spoken interaction. Hermeneutics involves interpretation and understanding of texts, often in a philosophical context, rather than the specific technical focus needed for analyzing spoken conversation. Thus, the choice of Jefferson transcription is especially suited for the nuanced analysis required in conversation analysis.