Mixed Methods Research

Question 1

What philosophical worldview most closely relates to mixed methods research?

Answer 1

Pragmatism

Question 2

When should researchers do a mixed methods study?

Answer 2

The research question(s) dictates the appropriate research design

Question 3

What decisions need to be made in mixed methods research?

Answer 3

Implementation sequence (timing)
Priority (weighting)
Integration

Question 4

Implementation Sequence

Answer 4

Timing of the quantitative and qualitative components within mixed methods research
Concurrent or sequential

Question 5

Concurrent Mixed Methods Research Design

Answer 5

Quantitative and qualitative data collected at essentially the same time.
Data can be given equal or unequal priority.
Nested designs include one method that dominates while the other method is nested or embedded within.

Question 6

Sequential Mixed Methods Research Design

Answer 6

Involves two distinct phases.
Data collected in first phase is analyzed and used to inform second phase.

Question 7

Priority

Answer 7

Refers to the weight or emphasis assigned to quantitative and qualitative components.
Whether one of the research components will have priority over the other.
Ie. Prioritize qualitative component and give less attention to quantitative component

Question 8

Integration

Answer 8

Mixing or purposeful integration of quantitative and qualitative components.
Can occur at various stages of research process
-data collection, data analysis, data interpretation, knowledge translation.
It is common to converge/merge the data at the analysis phase
Side by side comparison or data transformation.

Question 9

Side-by-side Comparison

Answer 9

Quantitative and qualitative data analyzed separately.
One set of findings presented followed by the other.
Helpful when researchers need the findings from one phase inform the next phase

Question 10

Data transformation

Answer 10

Converting one form of data into the other form of data.
Qualitze numerical data (ie. use numerical data to provide description of sample).
Quantitize non-numerical data (ie. count codes or themes)

Question 11

Strengths of Mixed Methods Research

Answer 11

Neutralizing weaknesses and maximizing strengths of quantitative and qualitative designs.
Triangulation
Comprehensiveness
Instrument development and testing
Assisting sampling
Enhancing generalization

Question 12

Challenges of Mixed Methods Research

Answer 12

Blending philosophical worldviews
Bringing together diverse researchers
Timelines and resources
Sampling and analysis decisions
Publication and evaluation