Mixed Methods Research Designs

This paragraph introduces the concept of mixed methods research, which combines both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a research problem. It emphasizes the importance of understanding both methods before combining them and highlights the benefits of using mixed methods, such as gaining a better insight and a more complete picture of the research issue. The paragraph also notes the increased prevalence of mixed methods research in scholarly literature and outlines scenarios where this approach is particularly useful, such as when one method alone is insufficient or when seeking to build on the strengths of both methods.

This section delves into the historical development of mixed methods research, starting with the pioneering work of Campbell and Fisk in 1959. It discusses the evolution of the field through the 1980s and 1990s, leading to the establishment of six major mixed method designs. The paragraph also addresses the reflective period that mixed methods research is currently in, as it expands beyond education and into other disciplines. Key questions are provided to help identify mixed method designs in studies, focusing on the presence of both quantitative and qualitative data and the intent behind their use.

The paragraph outlines the six major types of mixed method designs, including convergent, explanatory sequential, exploratory sequential, experimental, social justice, and multi-stage evolution designs. Each design is briefly explained, highlighting their unique purposes and the sequence in which data is collected and analyzed. The strengths and challenges of each design are also discussed, providing a clear understanding of when and how they might be applied in research.

This section identifies seven key characteristics that distinguish mixed method designs from other research methodologies. It discusses the importance of collecting and analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data, the rigor of data use, and the integration of data collected through different methods. The paragraph also touches on the philosophical and theoretical framing of mixed method studies, the priority and sequence of data collection, and the use of diagrams and procedures to illustrate the design. Ethical issues related to mixed methods research are also considered, emphasizing the need to respect vulnerable populations and to be transparent about the purpose and potential impacts of the research.

The paragraph outlines the steps involved in conducting a mixed methods study, starting with assessing the feasibility of the study and identifying the rationale for mixing methods. It discusses the process of selecting a data collection strategy, formulating research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and writing the research report. The importance of clarity, detail, and rigorous analysis in maintaining the quality of mixed methods research is emphasized, along with the use of specific methodologies and designs to suit the research needs.

This final paragraph discusses the criteria for assessing the quality of mixed methods research, suggesting a rubric-like approach to evaluate the clarity, detail, and analysis of the research. It highlights the importance of illustrating the mixed methods approach, the sequencing, and the intent behind the research design. The paragraph also provides an example of how mixed methods research can be applied in a practical scenario, such as Dr. Creswell's study on the popularity of a new video game, and encourages viewers to consider the mixed methods design used based on the order of data collection.