Read chapters 10 and 11 from Tappen (2015) textbook. Based on your readings, please answer the following discussion question. What are the perceived challenges do you expect to find with validity and trustworthiness in qualitative research? What steps will you implement to ensure that your research is reliable? APA FORMAT 250 WORDS , EXCEPT REFERENCES
Perceived Challenges in Validity and Trustworthiness in Qualitative Research
Validity and trustworthiness are essential qualities that researchers must strive for when conducting qualitative research. Validity refers to the accuracy and appropriateness of the inferences made from the research findings, while trustworthiness relates to the credibility, dependability, and confirmability of the research (Tappen, 2015). However, qualitative research presents unique challenges in achieving these qualities, which include subjectivity, bias, and reliability. In this discussion, we will explore these challenges and discuss steps that can be taken to enhance the validity and trustworthiness of qualitative research.
Subjectivity is a key challenge in qualitative research. Since researchers are actively involved in collecting and interpreting data, their subjective judgments can influence the findings. This subjectivity can manifest in various forms, such as personal bias, preconceived notions, and selective reporting, which may compromise the validity and trustworthiness of the research (Tappen, 2015). Researchers must be aware of their own biases and take steps to minimize their influence on the research process. This can be accomplished by conducting self-reflection, seeking feedback from peers, and critically examining alternative explanations for the findings.
Alongside subjectivity, bias is another challenge that impacts the validity and trustworthiness of qualitative research. Bias can arise from various sources, including the researcher’s assumptions, preferences, or the participants’ characteristics (Tappen, 2015). To address this challenge, researchers should adopt a reflexive stance, acknowledging their biases and examining how these biases may shape their research process. Transparency in reporting methodologies and findings is crucial in allowing readers to evaluate the potential influence of bias on the research outcomes.
Reliability is also a concern in qualitative research. Unlike quantitative research, where replicability is a hallmark of reliability, qualitative research often emphasizes the uniqueness and context-bound nature of the data (Tappen, 2015). This contextuality can pose challenges to ensuring the reliability of qualitative research findings. To enhance reliability, researchers should employ rigorous data collection and analysis methods, such as using multiple data sources, triangulation, and member checking (Tappen, 2015). These techniques allow for the corroboration and validation of findings through different perspectives and reduce the chances of idiosyncratic interpretations.
In order to ensure the validity and trustworthiness of qualitative research, it is essential to implement specific steps throughout the research process. Firstly, researchers must carefully plan and design the study, including clearly defining research objectives, identifying appropriate participants, and selecting appropriate data collection methods (Tappen, 2015). This helps to establish a strong foundation for the research and minimize potential biases or subjectivity. Additionally, rigorous data analysis techniques like coding, thematic analysis, and peer debriefing can contribute to the credibility and dependability of the research findings (Tappen, 2015).
Moreover, employing a systematic and transparent approach in reporting the research process and findings is crucial for establishing trustworthiness. This includes providing detailed descriptions of the research methodology, data collection procedures, and data analysis techniques (Tappen, 2015). Researchers should also aim to include diverse perspectives and contradictory findings to highlight the complexity and contextuality of the research topic. By doing so, readers can assess the credibility and transferability of the research findings to other contexts.
In conclusion, achieving validity and trustworthiness in qualitative research requires addressing challenges such as subjectivity, bias, and reliability. Researchers must strive to minimize their personal biases, acknowledge the potential influence of bias on their research, and employ rigorous data collection and analysis techniques. Additionally, transparent reporting of the research process and findings is crucial for establishing trustworthiness. By implementing these steps, researchers can enhance the credibility and dependability of their qualitative research findings.