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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 1
Running Head: TRIANGULATION WITH QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE
APPROACHES
Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches
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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 2
Introduction
Triangulation refers to the use of a combination of methodologies in the study of the
same phenomenon. In the military, triangulation means a strategy that uses multiple references to
locate the exact position of an object. In reference to Salkind (2010), there are four types of
triangulation. First data triangulation uses multiple data sources in an investigation. Secondly,
investigator triangulation employs several evaluators in observation and in analyzing participant
responses. Thirdly, in theory triangulation, multiple theories are used in conducting research or
interpreting data. Lastly, methodological triangulation employs several methods to study a single
problem (p.1537). Qualitative and quantitative methods should not be viewed as rival camps,
but as methods that are complementary to each other. Single method designs have been found to
have weaknesses and therefore, the desirable use of multiple methods has been highly
underscored. Thus this method combines the positions of the realist, constructionist and
empiricist to get data and information.
The use of triangulation has many benefits compared to single method research designs.
Triangulation allows for various data sources to be obtained that lead to a singular proposition
about the phenomenon being investigated. According to Mathison (1988), good research
obligates the researcher to use multiple methods, data sources and researchers to enhance the
validity of their research findings (p.13). This is done by comparing and cross-checking findings.
This means that the final conclusions of the research are validated by the various but harmonized
data from various sources.
Research Findings and Discussion
Triangulation is perceived to be a strategy of improving research or evaluation findings.
It is supposed to show that the independent measures agree with it or at least do not contradict it.
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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 3
Triangulation is a strong and valid strategy against bias and dismissal of rival ideas so that the
truth about a phenomenon under research is established. The convergence or agreement between
two methods enhances our belief that the findings are valid and is deemed to represent reality.
In reference to Salkind (2010), studies that employ triangulation typically yield three
outcomes: convergence, inconsistency or contradiction (p.1538). Researchers that are influenced
by constructivist philosophy are not primarily interested in the convergence of the data, but
expansion the existing knowledge on the problem under investigation. Constructivists belief that
inconsistency or contradiction is an opportunity to explore multiple realities that surround the
subject under investigation. Quantitative triangulation enables the comparison of the
establishment of the degree of compatibility of information obtained from different methods. In
addition, every type of data has its own strengths and weaknesses and in using multiple methods,
the weakness of one method will compensated by the strength of another approach that is
concurrently used.
According to Salkind (2010), archived data or information may be limited in could be
limited by the specificity of the information written in it, biases of the writer or distortion of
information (p.1539). In view of these limitations, the researcher may opt to employ
triangulation to minimize these limitations and other possible errors. In summation, combining
multiple observers, theories, methods and empirical materials, the challenges of weakness or bias
that result from single method design, single observer and single theory studies can be overcome.
According to Goodwin and Laura (1996), there is no inherent incompatibility between
qualitative and quantitative methods to the generation of knowledge, and therefore should be
both used to realize accuracy and validity (p.157).
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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 4
Qualitative research refers to the method that is supported by a set of hypotheses,
concerning how the social world functions. In that regard, it entails non-numerical data which
makes it not amenable to statistical analysis. According to Schwartz (2010), this method deduces
much of its basic principles from the perspective that there is fundamental difference between the
sciences of the natural human world, hence the need for the use of distinctive methods. The
pattern of qualitative research, like a scientific research: seeks answers to a question;
systematically uses a set of guidelines to answer the question; collects evidence; generates new
findings and produces findings that are useful beyond the immediate boundaries of the study.
The purpose of qualitative research is to put emphasis on describing and understanding
complex phenomena. It investigates the relationship and patterns among factors or the context in
which the activity happens, thus giving in-depth comprehensive information. According
Schwartz (2010), this method also evolving theories or conceptual bases and in proposing
hypotheses to clarify phenomena. The flexible nature of the qualitative method enables the
researcher to ask open-ended questions. This also gives the participants the freedom to respond
in their own words, which can be more complex than the simple ‘yes or ‘no’. The questions
relate to the quality, described by nature and the essence of the phenomenon under investigation.
Three common Qualitative methods are: participant observation; focus groups and in-depth
interviews. The data collected using this method is considered as real, rich and deep.
Quantitative research involves quantification of relationships between variables, the
examples of which are height, weight, treatment or performance. The quantitative method is
deductive, particularistic and is founded on the formulation of hypothesis and the subsequent
verification on a specific set of data. This method explains phenomena by collecting numerical
data that are then subjecting them to analysis using mathematically based methods. This method:
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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 5
begins with an idea, usually a stated hypothesis; generates data through measurement; allows for
conclusion through deduction and is reliable and valid if done well.
According to Hopkins (2000), the quantitative research methods can be descriptive,
meaning that it can be measured only once, or experimental, that is, measured before and after
treatment. The questions that are asked in quantitative research method such as, how much or
how many, are concerned with quantity. The purpose of the quantitative method is to verify or
generate new information by drawing conclusions from mathematical analysis of data based on
formulated hypothesis. The fact that it focuses on the frequency of occurrence can help in
guiding decisions around screening, diagnosis, and prognosis as well as establishing cause and
effect relationships.
Study Proposal: Qualitative and Quantitative Methods
Due to increased competition and a quest to remain as a leader in the market, a certain
company wishes to find out how customers perceive the company and its products. The
company, instead of using its own employees to get the customer perspective decides to employ
the services of an independent third party. The independent third party will ask questions about
both the company and its products. The data collection may involve the use of observation,
customer participation or interviews. The data collected has both qualitative and quantitative
aspects. By employing the services of an independent third party, creates triangulation
perspectives the use of triangulation, thus the challenges of single observer surveys are
overcome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of triangulation, besides ensuring that the weaknesses associated
with single observer design are eliminated, creates a high degree of validity due to convergence
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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 6
of data collected using different methods. Recent research shows that qualitative and quantitative
methods are compatible and complementary to each other, thus the weakness of one method is
supported by the strength of another. Organizations that have used triangulation triangulation in
their research have reported of credible and valid findings that helped their companies make
decisions that resulted in improved profitability.
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Triangulation with Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches 7
References
Goodwin, W.L. & Laura, G.D. (1996). Understanding Quantitative and Qualitative Research in
Early Childhood Education. London: Teachers College Press.
Hopkins, W.G. (2010). Quantitative Research Design. Sportscience. Retrieved October 27, 2010
from http://www.sportsci.org/jour/0001/wghdesign.html..
Salkind, N.J. (2010). Encyclopedia of Research Design. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE
Publications Ltd.
Schwartz, A. (2010). Advantages and Disadvantages of the Qualitative Research Methods.
Retrieved October 26, 2010 from http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Advantages-And-
Disadvantages-Of-The-Qualitative-Research-Methods/208266#ixzz13SopEqKL.