Methods and Methodology: A Study on Work-Based Learning Research Tools for Career Development

Background

The researcher is, however, warned that this tool in itself will not suffice regarding the final accuracy of the results. The respondents’ comments need to be checked for accuracy against other observations that the researcher will be making known as the method of triangulation. Triangulation is the use of multiple methods of triangular techniques to map out more fully the richness and complexity of human behaviour by studying it from more than one standpoint and in doing so by making use of both qualitative and quantitative data. Therefore the use of triangulation was paramount in this evaluation of a process of change. Silverman (2007), continues by stating that this will be ‘..a means of securing a fit between interpretations and some external reality.’

It is impossible to do empirical research without data. This data must be gathered, after careful consideration has been given to the data gathering strategy. Before deciding on the data collection methods in this current study, (interviews, observations, focus-groups and questionnaires), all available alternatives were considered by their strengths and weaknesses and the research techniques employed, were then chosen on their own merit. Kairuz et al. (2007), emphasize the importance of the researcher establishing a valid premise for the chosen method of data collection by considering the advantages and limitations of the method(s) when conducting the study and when evaluating the results.

Deciding which research method to choose depends on the purpose of the study, the questions to be answered, or the hypothesis to be tested. In general, the choice of data collection methods is determined by facts such as sample controllability, accessibility to data sources, availability and literacy of subjects, and penetration of communication vehicles (e.g. telephone, fax, internet and e-mail).

Masters et al. (2006), describe qualitative research as a phenomenon which generates theory, relates a historical event, or explains a culture by exploring life experiences as perceived by the individual. Interview techniques, observation, or document reviews are commonly employed to explore the meaning ascribed to a particular phenomenon. The data is organised into narrative descriptions, stressing the major themes, patterns, understandings and insights that have emerged (Patton, 2002).

Quantitative research, on the other hand, is explained by Masters et al (2006), as a process to describe a situation, correlate two, or more elements, test relationships, examine cause-and-effect interactions amongst variables, or test hypothesis. The researcher uses tools, or instruments to quantify data and employs statistics to determine statistical significance (i.e. results that are not due to chance).

Present Perspectives

Interviews are one of the most common ways of obtaining primary data. They highlight the role of human interaction and the importance of the social context in generating knowledge. They allow for greater depth, more nuanced description of participants’ experiences and opportunities to clarify misunderstandings experienced by the interviewee, than other methods of data collection.