3.

1 Mixed Methods Design

The mixed methods research has been described in a variety of ways which can make it a
difficult concept to understand (Niglas, 2009), for the assessment of structures for mobility of
persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Intramuros, Manila, the researchers will adopt the mixed
methods design as its approach in interpreting and in filling the research gaps of the topic.
According to Salkind (2010) mixing methods is generally acknowledged as being more pertinent
to modern research than using a single approach. Quantitative and qualitative methods may rely
more on single data collection methods. By that, the researchers have seen the need of
interpreting the data to be gathered from the assessment together with their extensive review of
related studies could be of help in effectively showing the relationships, the problems and
significance of the study based on the interpretation of the assessment in a quantitative and
qualitative manner.

The mixed methods study according to Creswell (2002), a mixed methods study involves
the collection or analysis of both quantitative and/or qualitative data in a single study in which
the data are collected concurrently or sequentially, are given a priority, and involve the
integration of the data at one or more stages in the process of research. For a mixed methods
approach Creswell has identified four basic mixed methods design namely; triangulation,
embedded, explanatory and exploratory design. In the research article by Borrego & Amelink
(2009) on the use of mixed research methods in engineering education, the four mixed methods
design are defined as follows;