The study is exploratory in nature and both qualitative and quantitative approaches are used. The collection of data through different methods enhances validity of the research study. Mouton (1996) and Babbie (1986) both argue that to enhance the utility of the study, data needs to be collected and analysed through triangulation. Accordingly, the research study used a triangulation method to improve the accuracy of judgments and results. Bless and Higson-Smith (1995) emphasise that the triangulation method leads to an increase in understanding both on the part of the researcher and of the client. This results in richer information, patterns and theories that help understand the phenomenon under investigation.
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The qualitative research method is defined by Silverman (2002) as characterised by in- depth inquiry, immersion in a setting, emphasis on context, concern with participants’
perspectives and description of a single setting, not generalisation to many settings.
Most of the qualitative researches are regarded as purposive in nature. According to McNabb (2002), the qualitative approach is based on broad strategic classes; namely, explanatory, interpretive and critical research studies. Explanatory research studies involve a process of developing a causal explanation for some social phenomenon. The researcher seeks to identify the set of variables and cause of a consequence. The explanatory research affords the researcher some degree of control over the research events. For example, the evolution of the KwaNaloga Games and the historical nature of IGR place this study within the explanatory class of qualitative research. In identifying the role of the KwaNaloga Games in promoting IGR, the study provides a platform for gaining insights and drawing conclusions about the phenomenon.
While causal explanations account for most human events, it is the interpretation of such variables that gives subjective meanings to social events. Interpretive research requires a researcher also to understand events in historical context; hence the study takes this point into consideration. Interpretive research has the ability to assume that humanity’s understanding of reality is a function of meanings assigned to social phenomena including shared experiences, publications and other artefacts.
Critical qualitative research aims at altering the distortions of reality thereby generating social action through advocating objectivity. Critical research has an objective need to
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help people change their beliefs and actions so that emerging alternatives as a process are considered. McNabb (2002) contends that there is a need to use all classes in a research process and refers to these classes as part of the triangulation research method.
The qualitative research approach is characterised by Ghauri et al. (1995) as a process- oriented, exploration-oriented, holistic perspective, based on interpretation and a rational approach. The objective of the qualitative approach demands an in-depth insight into a research phenomenon. Babbie (2005) maintains that a qualitative approach is suitable for observing and assessing causality in organisational affairs in their natural setting. The focus of this study is on understanding how the KwaNaloga Games as a social phenomenon promote IGR.
Henning and Smit (2004) elucidate that in this type of research approach the researcher needs skills that include abstract thinking, stepping back and critically analysing situations. Further, the researcher needs to recognise and avoid biases; obtain valid and reliable information and be able both to observe the process and interact with it.
Creswell (2003) points out that the researcher will learn from this process of observation and interactive experience and apply that learning to bring about the best opportunities for improvement or change.
There are many research approaches which are supported by a number of tools and techniques. This study has utilised the triangulation approach, the case study approach and the phenomenological approach. The triangulation approach has the benefit of taking advantage of different methodological viewpoints and arrives at more accurate discussion. This approach remains powerful in the field of social and human sciences
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research. The case study approach is an exploration of a bounded system or case over time through detailed, in-depth data collection involving multiple sources of information in context (Creswell, 1997). It is believed that the case study approach is more appropriate when the researcher is attributing causal relationships within the explanatory- interpretive-critical classes of qualitative research design.
The phenomenological approach is described by Corbin and Strauss (1990) as aiming at understanding and interpreting the meaning of an experience for a number of individuals. Researchers using this strategy of interpretive inquiry mainly utilise participant observation and interviews as the method of collection. Multiple individuals who happen to experience the phenomenon must be identified; data must be systematically collected; and meanings, themes and general descriptions of the experience must be analysed within a specific context.
3.2.2 QUANTITATIVE METHOD
The objective of a quantitative data approach in research is to measure the social world objectively, test hypotheses and to predict and control human behaviour. Mouton (1996) reports that a quantitative approach may be used in a study that enquires into social or human problems. The quantitative approach is based on the testing of a theory composed of variables; these variables are measured numerically and analysed statistically in order to determine whether the predictive generalisations of the theory are correct. Mouton and Marais (1998) regard the quantitative approach as more formalised, explicitly controlled and relatively close to the physical sciences.
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A quantitative study, according to Creswell (1994), is defined as an enquiry into social and human problems, based on testing a theory composed of variables, measured with numbers and analysed with statistical procedures in order to determine whether the predictive generalisations of the theory hold true. The quantitative approach has the following characteristics according to Mouton and Marais (1998): the researcher’s role is that of an objective observer, studies are focussed on relatively specific questions, and data collection procedures and types of measurement are constructed in advance of the study and applied in a standardised manner. The measurement is focussed on specific variables that are quantified through rating scales and frequency counts.