Table 4 Triangulation protocol
Step | Activity |
|---|---|
1. Sorting | Sort findings from each data set to identify the key findings that address each research question of interest to determine areas of content overlap and divergence. A list of the key themes will be compiled and added to the convergence coding matrix |
2. Convergence coding | Compare the findings to determine the degree of convergence of (a) essence of the meaning and prominence (e.g. the number of participants mentioning a theme) of the themes presented and (b) specific examples provided in relation to each theme. Characterise the degree and type of convergence using the following concurrence coding scheme within theme areas: |
 Convergence coding scheme | |
  Agreement | There is full agreement between the sets of results on both elements of comparison (e.g. meaning and prominence are the same and specific examples provided are the same) |
  Partial agreement | There is agreement on one but not both components (e.g. the meaning or prominence of themes is the same or specific examples provided are the same) |
  Silence | One set of results covers the theme or example, whereas the other set of results is silent on the theme or example |
  Dissonance | There is disagreement between the sets of results on both elements of comparison (e.g. meaning and prominence are different and specific examples provided are different) |
3. Convergence assessment | Review convergence coding matrix to provide a global assessment of the level of convergence. Document when and where researchers have different perspectives on convergence or dissonance of findings |
4. Completeness comparison | Compare the findings from the convergence coding matrix to create an overarching summary of the findings, highlighting both unique and similar contributions to each research question |
5. Researcher comparison | Determine the degree of agreement among researchers on triangulated findings. Any disagreements will be resolved by consensus through discussion with another researcher |
6. Feedback | Feedback of triangulated results to the wider research team for review and clarification |