UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Triangulation involves combining different approaches, such as interviews and surveys or quantitative and qualitative data, to study the same phenomenon. If findings converge across methods or sources, confidence in their validity increases. It can also help reveal complementary aspects of the research problem. Thus, the strategy of using multiple perspectives to cross-check results is correctly termed triangulation.

Option A:
Extrapolation means extending findings beyond the observed range of data or time period, often with caution. It does not inherently involve combining methods or sources for cross-checking. Therefore, it is not the best answer.

Option B:
Randomisation is the process of assigning participants to groups by chance to control bias, especially in experiments. While important, it does not refer to combining multiple sources of evidence. So it does not fit the stem.

Option C:
Option C, triangulation, emphasises convergence and complementarity across methods, observers or data sets. It is widely recommended to enhance credibility in both qualitative and mixed methods research. This aligns exactly with the description given, making the option correct.

Option D:
Replication refers to repeating a study or analysis, often with new samples, to see whether results hold. It deals with reproducibility over time rather than simultaneous use of multiple methods. Hence, it is not the correct completion here.