Dependability
Dependability in qualitative research is similar to reliability
in quantitative research. This means that the study should
be consistent over time and that enough observations were
made to show this consistency. Dependability is supported
when coding checks show that there is agreement within and
among the concepts and themes. When existing theories can
be tied to new findings, dependability is enhanced. Review
by peers or colleagues, as with peer debriefing, also sup-
ports dependability. There should be a logical consistency
between responses of participants that carries over into the
coding and analysis procedures. The audit trail should show
rigor of research method with multiple journals being used to record thoughts,
decisions, and reflections about the data and coding procedures.
Confirmability
Confirmability in qualitative research is most like objectivity in quantitative
research. Neutrality refers to the findings of the research versus the researcher
(Sandelowski, 1986). Some subjectivity is inherent in qualitative methods be-
cause the researcher is the instrument for data gathering as well as analysis and
interpretation. It is when any potential biases are not recognized or accounted
for that confirmability may be in question. Member checks and peer debriefing
may help researchers remain true to the data. Methods of the study should be
described completely with an audit trail clearly detailing all aspects of the study.
The self-reflections of researchers should be recorded in journals. Record keeping
must be accurate. Data should make sense and appear to be real and authentic.
In summary, qualitative researchers should consciously address the four
criteria that are the standard for establishing trustworthiness. Nurse researchers
should review the strategies for meeting these criteria and build them into the
research plan. Journaling, good record keeping, recording detailed field notes
with thick descriptions, and recognizing sources of bias are essential to meet
these criteria. In addition, scientific and ethical standards for rigor in qualita-
tive research must be maintained to provide the best possible believability and
trustworthiness for the study.
FYI
The standard criteria accepted for evaluating
quantitative data (internal validity, external
validity, generalizability, reliability, and ob-
jectivity) fit well for evaluating numbers, but
not words, the basic unit of qualitative data.
Establishing the trustworthiness of qualitative
data is particularly challenging because of the
potential for subjectivity that is inherent in this
type of research; however, it can be achieved
by meeting four criteria: credibility, transfer-
ability, dependability, and confirmability.Compare and contrast each of the four criteria of trustworthiness of a qualitative study with
what you have learned about the criteria for evaluating quantitative studies. How are they
alike? How are they different? What is your understanding of the reasons behind using different
measures to evaluate qualitative versus quantitative research?CRITICAL THINKING EXERCISE 14-2
14.3 Qualitative Data Evaluation 395