4. Triangulation process✍
It is a process of analyzing different data sets comparatively, which are obtained in terms of the same phenomenon or characteristics from different sources, to do cross-verification of the truthfulness of the data and findings.
Ultimately, it establishes the validity of the research. The data are obtained from different sources or the subjects by using the same tool or different tools in this process. Sometimes, data are collected from the same subjects regarding the same phenomenon or topic during the same period of study by using different research tools or techniques.
Different data sets obtained in this way, are analyzed separately and comparatively. The main motto of this process is to do cross-verification of the truthfulness of data and to check the logical positivism of findings. Moreover, It is used to derive the real trend of the characteristics by comparing the findings which are derived from the results of comparative analysis.
In this way, the triangulation process gives a clear picture of the tendency of the subjects of the research in terms of their honesty in giving responses and their beliefs and behaviors towards a particular phenomenon.
Triangulation in qualitative research is like using different tools or ways to check if your findings are accurate and reliable. It's a bit like using multiple signs to find your way on a map instead of just one.
Here's an easy explanation with an example:✍Let's say you're doing a research project about how people feel about technology in schools. Instead of only asking students about their opinions, you might use triangulation to get a more complete picture.
Like Interviews, Observation, and Surveys.
Interviews: First, you could talk directly to students and ask them questions about their thoughts on technology in the classroom. This could give you a lot of detailed information.
Observations: Then, you might also spend time in classrooms watching how students and teachers use technology. This way, you're not just relying on what people say; you're seeing how it's actually being used.
Surveys: You could also create a survey and ask teachers and parents about their perspectives on technology in schools. This adds another viewpoint to your research.
By using different methods like interviews, observations, and surveys, you're looking at the same topic from
various angles.
If all these different methods show similar results—like most students saying they prefer using technology, observations showing frequent use, and teachers and parents agreeing that it's beneficial—then you can be more confident in your findings.
Triangulation helps researchers feel more confident that their conclusions are solid because they've looked at the issue in different ways. It's like checking directions with a map, and GPS, and asking locals—all confirming you're going the right way!
Professor (Dr.) P. M. Mxlek
***Next Terminologies used in Qualitative Research Design: 5. Logical Positivism
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