Improving Credibility through Triangulation

In qualitative research it is common to see researchers employ a triangulation strategy to improve the credibility of their inquiry. Denzin (1988) outlined four distinct types of triangulation:

• Data
• Observer
• Methodological
• Theory

In some cases, ‘multiple triangulation’ is used; this uses a combination of two or more techniques.

Data:

This technique can be broken down into three different types; these are: time, space and person. Time triangulation requires the researcher to alternate the times at which data is collected. Space triangulation requires the researcher to alternate where the data is collected. Person triangulation requires the researcher to collect data from a wide variety of individuals/groups.

Observer:

This procedure requires multiple researchers with divergent backgrounds to work together in prominent roles within the same study. Each researcher collects their own data; they are not given the data. Once each observer has collected their data, they meet and reach a conclusion.

Methodological:

This strategy involves multiple methods for collecting the data. The aim of this technique is to achieve a more holistic and greater understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. This is an excellent method of evaluating the authenticity of the data collected, thus increasing the collected data’s credibility. This is the most time consuming and costly triangulation technique.

Theory:

This technique requires that multiple theories are explored during the analysis of the findings. As there is no perspective that fits any situation, it is ideal to explorer multiple theories to gain a better understanding on the data collected. It is thought that ‘the best perspective is one which contains many perspectives’

References:

http://www.delmar.edu/socsci/rlong/intro/perspect.htm

http://www.qualres.org/HomeTria-3692.html