Posted: August 12th, 2018
Increasing Validity and Reliability in Research Study
1. The theoretical foundations of qualitative and quantitative methods are very different, but many researchers believe both methods should be used in the research study to increase validity and reliability. What advantages or disadvantages do you see in using both types of methods in a nursing study? Support your answer with current evidence-based literature.
2. According to the textbooks, nurses in various settings are adopting a research-based (or evidence-based) practice that incorporates research findings into their decisions and interactions with clients. How do you see this being applied in your workplace? ( my workplace setting: nursing home)
Sample essay.
Increasing Validity and Reliability in Research Study
Qualitative and quantitative methods are theoretical foundations used as research approaches. Qualitative approach scrutinizes the conduct, concerns and experiences of people and what is inherent at the midst of their lives (Holloway & Galvin, n.d.). On the other hand, quantitative approach involves a structured process used to answer questions about quantifiable hypothesis. Though disparate, they can be both used by researchers to increase credibility and authenticity in research study.
Mixed methods research, that is; using both qualitative and quantitative methods of research, is growingly being used in nursing research to deepen comprehension of nursing phenomena. Qualitative and quantitative methods supplement each other in research to ensure that factual information is obtained during research. Quantitative information aids qualitative research constituents by recognizing outlying cases while qualitative data supports quantitative research elements by aiding with development of the theoretical model (Doorenbos, 2015). While collecting data, quantitative data provides diagnostic information which help analysts to select patients to interview while qualitative data assist investigators to comprehend the hurdles and enablers to patient enrolment and retention. These advantages arise from using both qualitative and quantitative method in carrying out investigations.
Mixed methods research however, has its limitations. Using both qualitative and quantitative method gives a chance to one of the methods being dominant over the other thus limiting the research aspect of the other method. The application of the two methods of research is also less conscientious thus providing limited guidance for amateur researchers (Bressan V et al., 2017). Mixed methods research brings forward some irregularities in execution and reporting. It is therefore unpredictable. The possibility of limiting validity of results in healthcare practice through application of information obtained from a research that uses the two methods is also evident.
Evidence-based practice encourages healthcare practitioners to provide individualized patient care by incorporating patient’s preference, research evidence and medical expertise. In healthcare stations, this is achieved through engaging all pertinent contributors (“Implementing evidence-based practice for older people in hospital fact sheet”, 2017). The stakeholders include patients, hospital staff, carers and various families that have patients in the facility. The organization’s practices are also aimed at meeting policy standards and guidelines which are informed by evidence-based research. Research results are also implemented in a sustainable manner to ensure that the changes that come with it are maintained.
References
Bressan V, Bagnasco A, Aleo G, Timmins F, Barisone M, & Bianchi M et al. (2017). Mixed-methods research in nursing – a critical review. – PubMed – NCBI. Retrieved 11 February 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27805742
Doorenbos, A. (2015). Mixed Methods in Nursing Research: An Overview and Practical Examples. Retrieved 11 February 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4287271/
Holloway, I., & Galvin, K. Qualitative research in nursing and healthcare (4th ed., p. 3). John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implementing evidence-based practice for older people in hospital fact sheet. (2017). Retrieved 11 February 2020, from https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/hospitals-and-health-services/patient-care/older-people/resources/improving-access/ia-evidence
