In the process of dealing with observations and works of other researchers, it is important to trust them. However, it is necessary to question some issues about the research, such as its methodology and structure. These issues are very important because they deal with usage of theory, which promote validity of a qualitative research (Eisner, 1991).
However, when it comes to quantitative research, the researchers can involve various tests and tools to find some information and develop conclusions (Mixed methods procedures. Chapter 10).
Trustworthiness in qualitative research can be assessed with the help of such factors as:
Credibility – strategies which ensure informants’’ honesty, involve recognized methods of research; provide background description, qualifications of the researcher, etc.
Transferability – establishes the research context and background data;
Dependability – involves deeper methods and contributes to their overlapping in order to reach the best results possible;
Confirmability – reduction of bias, usage of diagrams, recognition of effects and shortcomings, etc.
Qualitative research is able to incorporate a range of measures which contribute to its reliability and validity. It is important to take into account all four criteria of a valid research in order to ensure its credibility. If any of them is absent, there might appear doubts considering reliability of the research (Shenton, 2004).
Credibility and reliability of qualitative and quantitative research differ because of various factors which contribute to them. Thus, in order to make sure that a qualitative research is credible, it is important to take care about its credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability (Validity and reliability). However, when it comes to quantitative research, the researchers should remember about internal validity, external validity, reliability, and objectivity (Eisner, 1991).
References
Eisner (1991). Qualitative reasoning and analysis in applied psychology.
Mixed methods procedures. Chapter 10.
Shenton, A. (2004). Strategies for ensuring trustworthiness in qualitative research projects. Education for information, 22, 63-75
Validity and reliability – what’s it all about? Part 3 Issues relating to qualitative …