Triangulation: Research Skill

Source of image: usingdata.wordpress.com

Triangulation means using more than one method to collect data on the same topic. This is a way of assuring the validity of research through the use of a variety of methods to collect data on the one topic.  The process of triangulation allows us to cross-check data from a variety of sources methods, and to confirm whether it is correct or not. Moreover, since through the process we also learn how our resources are relevant to our quest, triangulation also strengthens our standpoint as  researchers.

There are many ways to ‘triangulate information’, and we must choose one that allows us not solely to cross-validate data, but also to gain good understanding from different perspectives of an investigated phenomenon.

The following image demonstrates one way of triangulating our research. You can use this format for any research project, and it will particularly help you during the research process for your Personal Project in MYP and your TOK Essay and the Extended Essay in DP:.