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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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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 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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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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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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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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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.

http://www.sportsci.org/jour/0001/wghdesign.html

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