Triangulation

Definition

Triangulation is a research method that involves using multiple data sources, perspectives, or methods to validate findings and enhance the credibility of results. This approach allows researchers to cross-verify data and ensure a more comprehensive understanding of outcomes and impacts, particularly in evaluating philanthropic interventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Triangulation helps reduce bias by comparing different data sources or methods, making the findings more reliable.
2. In philanthropic evaluations, triangulation can involve gathering data from beneficiaries, stakeholders, and existing literature to assess impact.
3. Using triangulation can reveal discrepancies between different data sources, prompting deeper investigation into the reasons behind those differences.
4. This method enhances the richness of the data collected, allowing for a multi-faceted view of the interventions being evaluated.
5. Triangulation is especially important in complex social issues where single-method approaches might overlook critical insights.

Review Questions

• How does triangulation contribute to the reliability of findings in evaluating philanthropic interventions?
  • Triangulation enhances the reliability of findings by incorporating multiple data sources or methods to cross-verify results. For instance, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys allows evaluators to gather diverse perspectives on an intervention's impact. This multi-faceted approach reduces bias and provides a more nuanced understanding of how and why specific outcomes occur, ultimately leading to stronger conclusions about the effectiveness of philanthropic efforts.
• Discuss how qualitative and quantitative methods can be integrated through triangulation in assessing philanthropic programs.
  • Integrating qualitative and quantitative methods through triangulation involves using qualitative insights to inform quantitative measures and vice versa. For example, qualitative interviews can help identify key outcomes that are then measured quantitatively through surveys. This integration ensures that not only are numerical data analyzed but also the context and meaning behind those numbers are understood. Such comprehensive assessments allow for a richer evaluation of philanthropic programs.
• Evaluate the significance of triangulation in addressing potential biases in philanthropic evaluations and how it shapes future funding decisions.
  • Triangulation plays a crucial role in addressing potential biases by providing a broader perspective on the effectiveness of philanthropic interventions. By comparing data from various sources, evaluators can identify inconsistencies or gaps in information that may lead to misinterpretations. This thorough assessment shapes future funding decisions by highlighting successful strategies and areas needing improvement. Consequently, it ensures that resources are allocated effectively to programs with proven impact while fostering accountability among stakeholders.

Related terms

Qualitative Methods: Research techniques that focus on understanding the meaning and experiences behind human behavior, often involving interviews, focus groups, or open-ended surveys.

Quantitative Methods: Research approaches that involve the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns, test hypotheses, and measure outcomes statistically.

Mixed-Methods Research: An approach that combines qualitative and quantitative research techniques to provide a fuller understanding of a research question or intervention's effectiveness.