RELIABILITY QUESTION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH: EXPLORING THE MIXED METHODS APPROACH

Abstract

In social inquiry, some researchers collect and analyse data quantitatively, while others prefer qualitative methods, depending on the suitability of each approach to social evaluations. However, the complexities of contemporary social inquiry and the demand for validity, reliability and replicability require that, to enrich data and reduce expected deficiencies, a synergy of approaches suffices. The paper examined the emerging paradigm shift towards a combination of approaches in an attempt to gather and analyse data in social research, with special focus on the reliability question as well as the alternative method that can suitably answer it.

For purpose of application, a research was undertaken to study the rationale behind mass failure of Wesley University students in a course in two sessions. To this end, data were gathered using both primary and secondary sources and analysed using mixed methods, specifically parallel data triangulation. The research found that the process followed in evaluation can be improved upon by blending both methods as this ensures that the limitations of a technique can be recompensed for by the strong point of the other, and this will consequently make the outcome reliable by integrating different ways of knowing. It then recommended that, due to the complexities of social research and the need for improvement of evaluation, mixed method approach offers the best way out.