CHOOSING A MIXED

METHODS DESIGN

Research designs are procedures for collecting, analyzing, interpreting,

and reporting data in research studies. They represent different

models for doing research, and these models have distinct names

and procedures associated with them.

PRINCIPLES FOR DESIGNING A MIXED METHODS STUDY

Designing research studies is a challenging process in both quantitative

and qualitative research. This process can become even more of a

challenge

when the researcher has decided to use a mixed methods approach

due to the inherent complexity in mixed methods designs.

Recognize That Mixed Methods

Designs Can Be Fixed and/or Emergent

Mixed methods designs may be fixed and/or emergent, and researchers

need to be cognizant of the approach that they are using and open to
considering

the best alternative for their circumstances.

Identify an Approach to Design

In addition to using fixed and emergent mixed methods designs,

researchers

also use different approaches for designing their mixed methods studies.

There are several approaches to design that have been discussed in the
literature,

and researchers can benefit from considering their personal approach

to designing mixed methods studies