A Review of the Strengths and Weaknesses of Archival, Behavioral, and Qualitative Research Methods: Recognizing the Potential Benefits of Triangulation

Abstract

This paper discusses the benefits, limitations and challenges in developing research projects that integrate a combination of archival, behavioral, and qualitative research methods. By demonstrating the inherent strengths and weaknesses of a using a single method in isolation, this paper aims to broaden our understanding of why and how research that examines various issues from the different perspectives is richer than employing any single method and enhances our understanding of a given accounting phenomenon. This paper also discusses how investigating an issue through multiple research methods can help researchers improve the generalizability of findings and present a panoramic view of a particular phenomenon.

Keywords: Research Methods, Triangulation, Doctoral Education

JEL Classification: C00, M49, I20