Using formative assessment approaches to enhance rigor and quality in research

Abstract This article suggests a formative assessment approach to enhance rigor and quality in research across paradigms. Acknowledging that no strategy can fully address the compromises inherent in research design, data collection, or analysis, the article recommends formative practices to address these challenges early in the research process. It explores the development of validity as a central concept in cross-paradigm research evaluation and critiques the limited adoption of standardized methods for assessing rigor and quality. The proposed approach enables researchers to address potential issues as they arise, fostering transparency and enhancing the credibility of findings. It identifies specific methods to improve rigor through alignment (visual model) and accuracy (pilot study), and quality through credibility (triangulation) and dependability (audit trail). By incorporating these strategies, researchers can strengthen methodology, ensure reliable results, and promote transparency. The article concludes with recommendations for implementing these approaches across various research traditions to improve rigor and quality.