Research method triangulation in a master's thesis: when to use it
Triangulation is not just about adding a second method just to make the work look more elaborate; it's about looking at the problem from different perspectives, comparing results, and better identifying discrepancies that a single data source doesn't explain.
Key information
- ✓Define the role of each method before starting the study.
- ✓Don't treat the match as the only goal of the triangulation.
- ✓Plan how to combine the data already in the methodology.
- ✓Explain the discrepancies instead of hiding them.
Four meanings of triangulation
Different data sources, methods, theoretical perspectives or the work of several researchers can be combined. thesis is most often used to triangulate data and methods, such as comparing surveys with interviews or analysing documents.
When a combination of methods helps
Triangulation is useful when one method shows the scale of a phenomenon and the other helps to understand its mechanism, and it can also reveal differences between participants' statements and documents or observed practices.
Sequential and parallel project
In a sequential project, the outcome of the first stage affects the second, for example, a survey indicates the groups invited for interviews. In a parallel project, the data is independently collected and then compared. The selection must be described with justification.
Integration of the results
Prepare a common question matrix and data sources. For each problem, show what comes out of each method, where the results are consistent and where they are different. Differences can be an important outcome if discussed honestly.
Summary
Triangulation makes sense when each method brings in different information and together they answer a common problem.
Frequently asked questions
Does a survey and a few interviews always make a triangulation?
No. Methods must be linked to a common problem and the results must be deliberately synthesized and interpreted.
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