Various approaches can be employed to validate research findings using qualitative data. For example, methods such as interviews, focus groups, and case studies can provide rich descriptive information that supports or refutes quantitative results. The specific methodology selected depends heavily on the nature of the research question and the type of data already gathered. Triangulation, the use of multiple data sources or methods to investigate a phenomenon, is a particularly robust approach to enhance credibility and provide a more comprehensive understanding.
Confirming results through qualitative investigation strengthens the validity of research conclusions. It provides context and nuance, often uncovering underlying mechanisms and explanations that quantitative data alone may miss. Historically, a reliance solely on numerical data has sometimes led to misinterpretations or incomplete understandings. Incorporating qualitative perspectives allows for a richer, more nuanced exploration of the topic under investigation, ultimately leading to more impactful and applicable findings.
