Discussion: Principles and Methods of Qualitative Data Collection

A key requirement of the case study design is to collect data from multiple sources. Specifically, all Walden DBA independent scholars conducting case studies must collect data from at least two sources, interviews being one of those mandatory sources. Yin (2014) identified six sources of evidence to include (a) documentation, (b) archival records, (c) interviews, (d) direct observation, (e) participant observation, and (f) physical artifacts (p. 105). You will be required to select one source other than interviews to meet the data collection requirements.

To prepare for this Discussion, review this weekâs Required Readings and consider why the different sources of evidence are important to the work of a DBA doctoral researcher, including the role of triangulation within the qualitative data collection process.

By Day 3

Post an analysis of sources and methods of data collection in the context of your DBA doctoral research question. In your analysis, do the following:

• Explain how the âFour Principles of Data Collectionâ from Yin (2014) support your ability to address your DBA doctoral research question.
• Explain the importance of utilizing multiple sources of evidence and triangulation within the data collection process. Be sure to address the specific types of data triangulation (data, investigation, investigator, methodological) and their relationship to data quality. Be sure to provide a scholarly example to support your explanation.

Be sure to support your work with a minimum of two specific citations from this weekâs Learning Resources and one or more additional scholarly sources.

Saunders, M. N. K., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2015). Research methods for business students (7th ed.). Essex, England: Pearson Education Unlimited.

• Chapter 10, Section 10.3, âWhen to Use Semi-Structured and In-Depth Interviewsâ (pp. 393â396)

Yin, R. K. (2014). Case study research: Design and methods (5th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

• Chapter 4, âCollecting Case Study Evidence: The Principles You Should Follow in Working with Six Sources of Evidenceâ (pp. 103â132)

Anyan, F. (2013). The influence of power shifts in data collection and analysis stages: A focus on qualitative research interview. The Qualitative Report, 18(18), 1â9. Retrieved from http://www.nova.edu/sss/QR/index.html