In qualitative research, which of the following scenarios best illustrates a pitfall related to data saturation when relying solely on field notes compared to a mixed-methods approach?

When a researcher relies only on field notes, they may think saturation has been reached because the notes seem to repeat the same observations, even though subtle variations are missed. The researcher might stop collecting data, believing no new ideas will emerge, and therefore miss deeper insights that would surface through interviews or focus groups. A mixed‑methods approach, adding interviews or surveys, can reveal these hidden nuances and confirm whether saturation truly exists. For example, a teacher might note that students appear engaged, but interviews uncover that many feel anxious about speaking up; the field notes alone would have missed this. Thus, depending solely on field notes can create a false sense of saturation and overlook important themes.