Application of triangulation in qualitative research

Abstract

Quantitative and mixed-methods studies are more popular among Ghanaian researchers than qualitative studies. The preference for quantitative and mixed-methods studies originates from the notion that these are more scientific and rigorous, and produce generalizable findings and conclusions. Though qualitative studies appear difficult and laborious to design and conduct, and generally, the findings produced from qualitative studies seem not to be rigorous, qualitative studies can also produce robust findings and conclusions. Researchers who want to conduct qualitative studies must have good knowledge of the ontology, epistemology, and methodology of qualitative research. A vital skill qualitative researchers must possess to conduct quality research is the application of triangulation in qualitative research. The effect of the weaknesses of qualitative research on findings and conclusions can be minimized through the application of triangulation. The purpose of this article is to highlight the application of triangulation in qualitative research. It begins by explaining triangulation and its origin and then discusses the four main types of triangulation and how they can be applied in qualitative research