Mixed methods Flashcards
Mixed Methodologies
Uses both qualitative and quantitative methods in one study.
- Mixed methodologies are also known as multiple, combined or blended methods research or mixed strategy or multi-strategy research
- fits the paradigm pragmatism.
- strengthens the research by drawing on the positive aspects of both interpretivism and positivism.
- Combining of methods is also known as triangulation.
- Particular approach to use and when should be determined by the study’s aims and objectives
Models of mixed methods research
mixing could occur during data collection, data analysis or when the findings are interpreted.
- The purpose of the study
- The priority to be given to the approaches
- Theoretical perspective to be taken
- Resources available
- Researcher expertise
Three main types of models:
- Parallel: qualitative and quantitative components are carried out at the same time but the findings are not synthesised until both sets of data have been analysed separately.
- Sequential: the qualitative and quantitative elements are undertaken separately, and one leads to and informs the other.
- Embedded: when one component is embedded within the other component.
Advantages of mixed methods research
- More practical approach
- May reveal new knowledge
- Cost effective
- Enables researchers to explore different perspective in one study
- Allows researchers to explore different aspects of a complex phenomena in one study
- Holistic approach
- Draws on the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative research and reduces their impact of any weakness.
Disadvantages of mixed methods research
- Both research methods are such that they cannot be mixed
- Power struggles between the research team
- More time consuming
- Findings may be complex, it is essential that the essence of the data is not lost
Factors to consider:
- Research skills training before the study begins is essential
- Length of time for each element.
Surveys:
Underpinning philosophy of a survey will be influenced by the approach taken
Can provide data and can take a quantative approach with the collection of quantifiable data from a large representative sample
- Descriptive survey: this aims to describe as accurately as possible the situation as it is
- Explanatory/analytical survey: to establish cause and effect relationships or associations between variables without the use of experimental manipulation
Advantages of Surveys::
- Can be used to research a range of topics/ fewer ethical implications
- Can be efficient, cost effective and relatively economical to carry out
- Can be used to collect data from a wide geographical area
- Can be generalised, promoting validity/ can be replicated
Limitations of Surveys:
- Validity is influenced by the sampling strategy used
- More quantative data/ difficult to assess validity and reliability
- Carried out without planning or design/ low response rate
Action Research
Known as participatory, collaborative research
It seeks transformative change , problem solving approach through the simultaneous process of taking action and doing research, which are linked together by critical reflection.
Action research tends to be:
- Cyclical- similar steps tend to recur, in a similar sequence;
- Participative – the clients and informants are involved as partners, or at least active participants, in the research process;
- Qualitative – it deals more often with language than with numbers; and reflective – critical reflection upon the process and outcomes are important parts of each cycle.
The cyclic process of action research
Begins when a problem is identified and try to solve the problem and 4 key stages
- Assess: nature and extent of the problem
- Plan: an intervention or change is identified which will address the problem
- Implement: Intervention or change is implemented
- Evaluate: impact of change is evaluated
The cyclic process of action research
Strength: Can promote team working. Established mechanism for developing care and service provision. Enables ownership
Limitations: Implementation of change can be undertaken without making into a study and knowing when to end the research may be a problem.
Historical Research
- Historical research is a qualitative technique. Historical research studies the meaning of past events in an attempt to interpret the facts and explain the cause of events, and their effect in the present events.
Historical Research
- Involves the collection of data that relate to people, places and events in the past.-
- Data should be analysed in the context of social, cultural, religious, economic
- Duty of care to data sources, anonymity maintained
- May not provide sufficient information about the methodological approach
- Helps us learn about the past and explain the present
