Rethinking the evaluation criteria for qualitative tourism research: introducing resynthesis

Abstract

This conceptual study aims to examine the evaluation criteria introduced by Lincoln and Guba (1985) through the lens of the current trends in qualitative tourism research. Emphasis is placed on the techniques of credibility, which are divided into internal and external. The findings reveal that internal techniques refer to the accuracy of the researcher’s interpretations of data analysis based on the researcher–participant relationship. In contrast, external techniques pertain to techniques requiring external reviewers and sources that increase the accuracy of research outcomes (e.g., peer debriefing). In this respect, this study proposes resynthesis as a technique that compares the findings of a qualitative study with past research. Although this technique is used in systematic literature review and metasynthesis, its scope differs in that it compares the empirical study’s findings with the existing literature in an attempt to enhance credibility.