Quantitative, Qualitative, Mixed Methods, and Triangulation Research Simplified

• Published in: The Journal of continuing education in nursing Vol. 55; no. 7; pp. 338 - 344
• Main Authors: Kawar, Lina Najib, Dunbar, Ghada B., Aquino-Maneja, Emma M., Flores, Sarah L., Squier, Victoria Rondez, Failla, Kim Reina
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Thorofare, NJ SLACK Incorporated 01.07.2024; Slack, Inc; SLACK INCORPORATED
• Subjects: Analysis; Case Studies; Clinical trials; Control Groups; Data collection; Human subjects; Hypothesis testing; Intervention; Methods; Mixed methods research; Nurses; Nursing education; Qualitative research; Quasi-experimental methods; Research design; Research methodology; Researchers; Statistical analysis; California
• ISSN: 0022-0124; 1938-2472; 1938-2472
• DOI: 10.3928/00220124-20240328-03

For the novice nurse researcher, identifying a clinical researchable problem may be simple, but discerning an appropriate research approach may be daunting. What are the differences among quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods, and triangulation research? Which method is applicable for the study one wants to conduct? This article discusses the two main research traditions (quantitative and qualitative) and the differences and similarities in methods for frontline nurses. It simplifies and clarifies how the reader might enhance the rigor of the research study by using mixed methods or triangulation. The four types of research are described, and examples are provided to support readers to plan projects, use the most appropriate method, and effectively communicate findings. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2024;55(7):338–344.]