Online Article

Types of qualitative data triangulation

13th January 2023

Related topic: Qualitative research

Author: Ady Hameme N. A.

Qualitative data triangulation refers to the use of multiple sources or methods to collect and analyze data in a research study. This approach aims to increase the validity and reliability of the findings by providing multiple perspectives and reducing the potential for bias.

According to Creswell (2017), qualitative data triangulation can involve the use of different research methods, such as interviews, observations, and document analysis, as well as different types of data sources, such as participants, experts, and documents. Denzin and Lincoln (2017) also highlight the importance of triangulating data across different sources, such as personal accounts, official records, and popular media, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic.

Denscombe (2018) emphasizes the role of triangulation in enhancing the credibility of the research findings by allowing the researcher to cross-check and compare the data from different sources. Morse (2017) notes that triangulation can also help to identify and resolve discrepancies or inconsistencies in the data, as well as to provide a more nuanced and complex understanding of the research topic.

Miles and Huberman (2018) suggest that triangulation can be particularly useful in qualitative research, where the focus is on understanding people's experiences, beliefs, and perspectives. In this context, triangulation can help to enrich and deepen the understanding of the research topic by providing multiple perspectives and viewpoints.

Denzin and Lincoln (2019) also highlight the value of triangulating data across different research methods and sources to increase the generalizability of the findings. By using multiple methods and sources, the researcher can better capture the complexity and diversity of the research topic, which can increase the potential for the findings to be applicable to a wider range of contexts.

Charmaz (2020) notes that triangulation can also be useful in qualitative research as a way of verifying and strengthening the findings. By using multiple methods and sources, the researcher can provide more robust evidence to support their conclusions.

Dey (2021) emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate methods and sources for triangulation in order to maximize the benefits of this approach. This may involve selecting methods that are complementary or that provide different perspectives on the research topic.

Finally, Lincoln and Guba (2022) highlight the role of reflexivity in qualitative research, which involves the researcher being aware of their own biases and assumptions and considering how these may impact their interpretation of the data. Triangulation can be a useful tool in this context by providing multiple perspectives that can help to challenge or confirm the researcher's initial interpretations.

In summary, qualitative data triangulation involves the use of multiple sources and methods to collect and analyze data in a research study. This approach can enhance the validity and reliability of the findings by providing multiple perspectives and reducing the potential for bias. It can also help to increase the generalizability and credibility of the findings, and can be a useful tool for verifying and strengthening the conclusions of the research.

Cite this article: Ady Hameme, N. A. (2023, January 13). Types of qualitative data triangulation. Retrieved <insert month> <insert date>, <insert year>, from https://www.myadvrc.com/publications/article-9

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