[APOLOGIES FOR CROSS-POSTING]
Dear all
I've recently been involved in teaching on the concept and use of
'triangulation' as part of a research methods course.
Although the theoretical background to triangulation is quite
straight-forward, I'm yet to find a paper which truly captures the 'process
of triangulation'. By process, I'm referring to (i) the decisions made by
researchers in terms of method selection; (ii) the actual stages involved in
'triangulating' data across these methods (how for example have researchers
actually worked back-and-forth?); (iii) any practical issues or challenges
that have arisen during the course of this.
Can anyone recommend any key readings on this? The more practical the
better, although any suggestions are welcome.
In the spirit of giving as well as taking, listed at the *very end* of this
email are the papers I've been using in the teaching.
Best wishes
Chris Fitch
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Chris Fitch
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PAPERS:
Barbour, R.S. The case for combining qualitative and quantitative
approaches in health services research. Journal of Health Services Research
and Policy, 1999; 4, 1: 39-43. SYNOPSIS: Short and sweet overview of the
case for multi-method research. Good in setting the scene.
Begley, C. Using triangulation in nursing research. Journal of Advanced
Nursing, 1996; 24, 1: 122-128. SYNOPSIS: Again, relatively short. Gives
an OK overview of different forms of triangulation (data, method,
investigator, analytical, theoretical). However, I would have liked more
detail and clarity. Might use again.
Morgan, D.L. Practical strategies for combining qualitative and quantitative
methods: applications to health research. Qualitative Health Research,
1998; 8, 3: 362-376. SYNOPSIS: Good paper on combining methods. Explains
difference between convergence and complimentarity in triangulation, and has
a useful matrix of different ways of combining methods (with accompanying
examples). Makes the argument that triangulation can often be a bit of a
'buzz word' or 'black box' - everyone is convinced they can use it, but few
people can convincingly explain how they do iut.
Kopinak, JK. The Use of Triangulation in a Study of Refugee Well-Being.
Quality & Quantity, 1999; 33: 169-183. SYNOPSIS: OK case-study of how
triangulation was used in a refugee study.
Sim, J. and Sharp, K. A critical appraisal of the role of triangulation in
nursing research. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 1998; 35: 23-31.
SYNOPSIS: A critique of simplistic and non-reflective uses of triangulation
in nursing research.
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