Discourse Analysis and Content Analysis: possibility of triangulation applied in a post-structuralist research

possibilidade de triangulação aplicada em uma pesquisa pós-estruturalista

Abstract

Researchers, especially those in training, may face difficulties in designing research, particularly when an investigation aims to incorporate different data sources, collection techniques, analysis approaches, theoretical bases, and/or researchers in the study. This article aims to present one of the possibilities for using triangulation in data analysis and to highlight the relevance of the close relationship between theory and methodology. To achieve this, we present an exemple research employing Discourse Analysis and Content Analysis techniques were employed. Based on post-structuralist theory, the mentioned investigation draws on concepts from Ernesto Laclau's Discourse Theory, which is relevant for understanding the methodological decisions elucidated throughout the text. Although it can be seen as a descriptive study, the article provides a link between theoretical information about the methodology and analysis techniques, as well as the findings of the illustrative study that interpret the applied methodology and theory. As a result, we find that the proper connection between theory and methodology is fundamental for a well-developed research design. Finally, we conclude that triangulation, when appropriately employed, can enrich the findings of research within the human and social sciences field.

Keywords: Methodology; Triangulation; Discourse Analysis; Content Analysis;  Discourse Theory.