Mixed methods research chater2

The passage you provided discusses the concept of "Mixed Methods Research" (MMR) in the
context of educational research. Here are the key points from the passage:

Integration of Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches: The passage emphasizes that when
studying a phenomenon, researchers should not restrict themselves to either quantitative or
qualitative methods. Instead, they should naturally integrate these methods to gain a more
comprehensive understanding of the situation. MMR involves using both quantitative and
qualitative data and approaches in research.

Rise and Prominence of MMR: The passage mentions that MMR is not a new concept but has
gained significant recognition and prominence in recent years. It has been referred to as the
"third methodological movement," the "third research paradigm," and the "third path" in
research.

Resolution of Paradigm Wars: The passage notes that MMR has emerged as a way to bridge
the gap between traditional allegiances to either quantitative or qualitative methodologies. It
represents a more inclusive and less confrontational ‫ تصادم‬approach to research, encouraging
dialogue between different research paradigms.

Theoretical Roots in Pragmatism: MMR is rooted in pragmatism, which influences its

ontology, epistemology, axiology, and methodologies. This theoretical foundation guides the
way researchers design and conduct MMR studies.

Multiple Views of the World: MMR acknowledges that the world is not solely quantitative or
qualitative but a mixture of both. It encourages researchers to look at the world from various
perspectives and to share and discuss their views and values in research.

Enhanced Understanding: The central premise of MMR is that combining quantitative and
qualitative approaches in a single study or series of studies provides a deeper and more
comprehensive understanding of research problems than using either approach in isolation.
Research problems often require multiple angles of investigation.

Flexibility Across Research Phases: MMR can take place both within and across different
phases of research. It is not solely about the types of data collected but extends to various aspects
of research design and philosophy.

In summary, the passage discusses the growing importance of Mixed Methods Research (MMR)
in educational research. MMR integrates both quantitative and qualitative approaches,
acknowledging the complexity of research problems and offering a more holistic and inclusive
way of studying them. It emphasizes the need to move beyond traditional research paradigms
and encourages a pragmatic and flexible approach to research design and data collection.

2.2 What is mixed methods research?

The passage you provided offers a comprehensive overview of the concept of mixed methods
research (MMR) and highlights its complexity and diverse interpretations. Here are some key
points and takeaways from the passage:

Definition of MMR: according to creswell and plano 2011 MMR involves research conducted
by one or more researchers that combines elements of both quantitative and qualitative
approaches in terms of perspectives, data collection, data analysis, and inferences. The primary
aim is to provide a richer and more reliable understanding of a phenomenon than a single
approach could yield.

Diverse Definitions: MMR is not limited to a single definition; according to Johnson et al 2007
nineteen def it encompasses various interpretations based on what is being mixed, when and
where the mixing occurs, the reasons for mixing, and the orientation of the research. Different
scholars and researchers may have their own definitions of MMR.

Dimensions of MMR: The passage outlines several dimensions that help organize different
views of MMR, including the

1. number of methodological approaches used,

2. the number of research strands or phases,
3. the type of implementation process,
4. the stage(s) at which integration occurs,
5. priority given to specific approaches,
6. the purpose and function of the research study,
7. And the theoretical perspectives employed.

Realms of MMR: MMR operates across four realms ‫دائرہ‬:

1. Methods (combining quantitative and qualitative methods and data types),

2. methodologies (integrating worldviews, research questions, methods, inferences, and
conclusions),
3. paradigms (philosophical foundations and worldviews), and
4. Practice (procedures in research).

Domains of Discussion: MMR discussions can be organized into four domains, including

1. philosophical assumptions and stances,

2. inquiry logics (purposes, research questions, design, methodologies),
3. guidelines for practice (how to mix methods), and
4. socio-political commitment (consideration of interests and political stances).

Applicability ‫ قابل اطالق‬of MMR: MMR is applicable to

1. different paradigms,
2. axiologies,
3. stakeholders,
4. levels of analysis (micro, meso, macro), and
5. research cultures and practices.

The choice to use MMR depends on the

1. research question and

2. may require plural methodologies,
3. cross-disciplinary approaches, and
4. multiple philosophical perspectives.

Comprehensive Approach: MMR can be applied at all stages and areas of research,
( philosophical foundations and paradigms; ontologies, epistemologies, axiologies; methodology,
research questions and design; instrumentation, sampling, validity, reliability, data collection;
data analysis and interpretation; reporting; and outcomes and uses of the research). A stronger
integration of methods at all stages typically leads to greater benefits from mixed methods
approaches.

In summary, mixed methods research is a multifaceted approach that combines quantitative and
qualitative elements in research to provide a more comprehensive understanding of phenomena.
Its definitions and applications vary across different dimensions and domains, reflecting its
adaptability to a wide range of research questions and contexts.

2.3 Why use mixed methods research?

The passage you've provided outlines key points explaining why mixed methods research
(MMR) is valuable in research contexts. Here are the main points:

Comprehensive Understanding: MMR allows for a more comprehensive and complete

understanding of phenomena compared to single-method approaches. It enables researchers to
address complex research questions meaningfully.

Combining Particularity with Generality: MMR combines the strengths of particular

(specific) and general (broad) perspectives, helping researchers find patterns and regularities
while acknowledging contextual complexity.

Incorporating Insider and Outsider Perspectives: MMR integrates both insider (emic) and
outsider (etic) perspectives, offering a well-rounded view of the research phenomenon.
Focus on the Whole and Constituent Parts: MMR enables researchers to focus on both the
whole phenomenon and its constituent parts, providing insights into the causes and effects.

Enhanced Credibility and Usefulness: MMR increases the credibility and usefulness of
research results by offering multiple views of the phenomenon and explaining the underlying
processes.

Overcoming Weaknesses and Biases: It helps overcome weaknesses and biases associated with
single-method approaches, promoting the benefits of complementarity and completeness.

Accuracy and Reliability Through Triangulation: MMR enhances data accuracy and
reliability through triangulation, which involves using multiple data sources or methods to
corroborate findings.

Practical and Problem-Driven Approach: It offers a practical, problem-driven approach to

research, allowing researchers to adapt their methods to the specific research questions and
goals.

Nuanced and Authentic Accounts: MMR provides more nuanced and authentic accounts of
complex phenomena compared to single-method approaches.

Welcoming Diversity: It welcomes multiple methodological traditions, promoting tolerance,

acceptance, respect, and democracy in research.

Transformative Paradigm: In some cases, MMR operates in a transformative paradigm,

seeking social justice and societal change.

Complementarily vs. Supplementarity: Researchers must differentiate between

complementarity (one method compensating for the shortcomings of another) and
supplementarity (simply adding methods). The choice depends on the research goals and needs.

Demonstrating the Need for MMR: Researchers should demonstrate that MMR is preferable to
a mono-method approach, especially if the research question does not unequivocally require
MMR.

Fitness for Purpose: Researchers should assess whether MMR is appropriate for their research
context by considering various philosophical, methodological, and practical aspects.

In summary, MMR is advocated for its ability to offer a more comprehensive, nuanced, and
credible understanding of research phenomena by combining multiple methods and perspectives.
Researchers must carefully consider their research goals and the specific context to determine
whether MMR is the most suitable approach.

2.4 The foundations of mixed methods research

The passage you provided discusses the foundations of mixed methods research (MMR) and the
paradigms that underlie it. Here are the key points from this passage:

Foundations of MMR: Mixed methods research combines both quantitative and qualitative
research approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of a research problem or
phenomenon.

Paradigms and World Views: Paradigms in MMR represent worldviews,

1. ontologies (views of reality),

2. epistemologies (ways of understanding and researching reality), and
3. axiologies (values and value systems).

These paradigms influence how researchers perceive the world, frame research questions, and
conduct their studies.

Paradigm Diversity: MMR draws from various paradigms, including

1. post-positivism (quantitative research),

2. constructivism (qualitative research),
3. participatory/transformative (qualitative research), and
4. pragmatism (both quantitative and qualitative).

Pragmatism as a Foundation: Pragmatism is highlighted as a foundational paradigm for MMR.

Pragmatism emphasizes the importance of using research methods that are practical and effective
in addressing research questions, regardless of whether they are quantitative or qualitative.

Methodological Pluralism: MMR encourages methodological pluralism, which means using a

range of research strategies and methods that best suit the research question, rather than adhering
to a specific paradigm or methodological approach.

Utility and Practical Consequences: Pragmatism values the practical consequences and utility
of research findings. It assesses the success of research based on its ability to solve problems and
provide useful insights.

Flexibility in Research Approach: Pragmatism allows for flexibility in research approaches and
methods, promoting a focus on what works best to answer research questions rather than rigid
adherence to a particular methodological tradition.

Community of Practice: Some researchers argue that MMR should be defined as a "community
of practice" characterized by like-minded researchers who embrace the principles of MMR.

In summary, mixed methods research incorporates various paradigms and emphasizes

pragmatism, which focuses on the practical utility of research methods and approaches in
addressing research questions. Researchers are encouraged to select methods that best suit the
research problem rather than being bound by a specific paradigm.

The passage you provided discusses the concept of "commensurability" in the context of mixed
methods research (MMR). Here are the key points from the passage:

Commensurability ‫ موافقت‬Problem: MMR faces the challenge of commensurability, which

refers to the question of whether it is possible to combine research methods that have distinct and
incompatible foundations and worldviews. In other words, it raises the issue of whether different
research paradigms can be integrated effectively.

Philosophical Question: The question of whether research paradigms are commensurable or not
is a significant open philosophical question. Some argue that trying to seek coherence between
fundamentally incompatible paradigms within a single research design is illogical.

Incompatibility: Some scholars, such as Hammersley, argue that quantitative and qualitative
research approaches are irreconcilable due to their different rationales. Mixing them may require
abandoning key assumptions of qualitative research.

Seven Levels of Mixing: Biesta identifies seven levels of "mixing" in MMR, ranging from
ontologies (views of the nature of reality) Epistemologies’, Research purposes, Practical
orientation’, Designs, Data and methods (collecting and analyzing data). These levels raise
challenging questions for researchers working with MMR.

Compatibility vs. Incompatibility: The passage questions whether MMR can genuinely "mix"
different elements or simply combine them while keeping them separate. It suggests that MMR
might be more about coexistence or parallel use of different approaches rather than true
integration into a single paradigm.

Specificity in Design: To address the challenges of incommensurability, it is important to be

specific about the types of quantitative and qualitative research planned within the MMR
framework.

Practical Utility: Despite the debate over commensurability, the passage emphasizes that in
practical research settings, the compatibility or incompatibility of paradigms may not be the most
critical concern. What matters most is the practical utility and effectiveness of MMR in
addressing research questions.

Moving Forward: Some scholars suggest that it may be time to move beyond the
commensurability/incommensurability debate and focus on conducting MMR research
effectively without getting bogged down in philosophical debates.

In summary, the passage highlights the ongoing debate regarding whether it is possible to
effectively mix research methods with distinct and incompatible foundations in mixed methods
research and suggests that practical utility and specificity in research design may be more
important than resolving the philosophical question of commensurability.

2.5 Working with mixed methods approaches

The passage you've provided discusses various aspects of mixed methods research (MMR) and
the considerations involved in designing and implementing such research. Here are some key
points and concepts from the passage:

Mixed methods research designs and data

Unique Nature of MMR: There are no fixed templates or blueprints for conducting mixed
methods research. Each MMR study is unique, and researchers must make decisions about the
research design, data collection, analysis, and reporting based on the specific research goals,
questions, and characteristics of the study.

Research Design: Research design encompasses the plan for addressing the research problem,
including the choice of methodologies, data types, data collection methods, and data analysis
approaches. It also involves justifying the decisions made in the research design.

Matching Research Questions: In MMR, it is crucial to align the research questions with the
chosen methods and elements of the research design. Researchers should provide clear
justifications for mixing various elements, such as paradigms, methodologies, data types, and
more.

Key Decisions in MMR: Several critical decisions need to be made when conducting MMR,
including why a mixed methods approach is chosen, what elements will be mixed, how mixing
will occur, the level of interaction between quantitative and qualitative strands, and the
timing/sequence of data collection.

Types of MMR Designs: The passage mentions different types of MMR designs, including:

1. Parallel Mixed Designs: Quantitative and qualitative approaches run simultaneously but
independently.
2. Sequential Mixed Designs: One approach (quantitative or qualitative) follows the other.
3. Quasi-Mixed Designs: Both data types are gathered but not integrated to answer specific
research questions.
4. Conversion Mixed Designs: Data are transformed from qualitative to quantitative or vice
versa.
5. Multilevel Mixed Designs: Different data types are integrated at different levels of the
research.
 6. Fully Integrated Mixed Designs: Mixed methods are used at all stages and levels of the
research.

Creswell and Plano Clark's MMR Designs: Creswell and Plano Clark identify various MMR
designs, including

1. convergent parallel design (combining quantitative and qualitative data),

2. explanatory sequential design (qualitative data explaining quantitative data),
3. exploratory sequential design (reverse sequence), and
4. Embedded design (both data types used for each research question).

Notation in MMR Designs: The passage introduces a notation system to describe different
MMR designs, including symbols like QUAN, Quan, QUAL, Qual, +, (), →, →←, [], and = to
represent the priority, subordination, sequencing, and outcomes of mixing methods.

Overall, this passage provides insights into the complex decision-making process involved in
mixed methods research, where researchers combine quantitative and qualitative approaches to
gain a deeper understanding of their research questions. Researchers must carefully consider the
unique characteristics of their study and align their choices with their research goals.

Transformative Design: In transformative design, as in critical theory, there is a political or

ideological agenda to advance social justice for the group or groups under study. The overall
purpose of research in this design is to serve a political or ideological goal, but the sequence and
types of data used may vary.

Multi-Phase Design: In multi-phase design, both quantitative and qualitative data can be used
concurrently or sequentially, depending on the research phase. The choice of which data to use in
each phase is iterative and based on the research's incremental and cumulative progress.

Variability in MMR Designs: There are many variations of MMR designs, including
differences in timing, the number of stages/phases, data types, and their interactions. Each
research study may plan its own design based on its specific needs and objectives.

Key Dimensions of MMR Design: The passage outlines several key dimensions that researchers
should consider when planning MMR, including

1. paradigm,
2. methodology,
3. time,
4. priority,
5. relationship between data types,
6. integration,
7. independence,
8. differentiation,
 9. matching,
10. issues in question,
11. transformative intention,
12. scope, and
13. strands.

Research Instruments: MMR researchers can utilize a wide range of research instruments for
data collection, and the choice of instruments depends on the research's specific requirements
and objectives.

Importance of Mixing Data: MMR addresses both quantitative (the "what" questions) and
qualitative (the "how" or "why" questions) aspects of research questions. Mixing data types can
provide a more comprehensive understanding of research findings and explanations.

Timing of Data Use: The timing of using qualitative and quantitative data can vary throughout
the research process, from pre-experiment data for baseline understanding to data collection
during and after experiments to assess outcomes and impacts.

Understanding Complex Findings: Qualitative data can help researchers understand the
nuances and multiple explanations behind simple quantitative statistics, offering richer insights
into research findings.

In summary, the passage discusses the complexities of MMR, highlighting the importance of
considering various dimensions and making informed choices about when and how to mix
different types of data in research designs to address research questions effectively.

Reliability and validity in mixed methods research

The passage you provided discusses the concepts of reliability and validity in the context of
mixed methods research, which combines both quantitative and qualitative data and approaches.
Here are the key points from the passage:

Reliability and Validity in Mixed Methods Research: When conducting mixed methods
research, combining quantitative and qualitative data can enhance reliability and validity.

Reliability Within Each Approach: Both quantitative and qualitative approaches have their
own elements to ensure reliability. These elements include respondent validation, credibility of
results, replicability, equivalence, stability, internal consistency (measured by Cronbach's alpha),
dependability, credibility, accuracy, fidelity to context, and more. These factors ensure reliability
within each approach separately.

Reliability as Triangulation: Reliability in mixed methods research involves triangulation not

only within each method but also between methods. This means using different instruments, data
types, researchers, timeframes, participants, perspectives, theories, methodologies, paradigms,
axiologies, and designs to enhance the reliability of the research.

Types of Triangulation: Denscombe suggests that triangulation in mixed methods research can
be of various types, including

1. methodological (between methods and within methods),

2. data triangulation (using contrasting sources of information),
3. investigator triangulation (involving different researchers), and
4. theory triangulation (involving different theoretical positions).

Strengthening Validity: Combining quantitative and qualitative data can strengthen the validity
of the research. Validity refers to the accuracy and credibility of the research findings.
Strengthening validity involves ensuring the rigor of the research design, methodological rigor,
consistency of findings with evidence, credible inferences, and quality data synthesis.

Validity Within and Between Approaches: Validity needs to be addressed within each
approach (quantitative and qualitative) separately. Additionally, it's essential to establish validity
between approaches by assessing the credibility of inferences made from both quantitative and
qualitative data.

Validation of Meta-Inferences in MMR: In mixed methods research, a three-step process of

validation for meta-inferences (inferences that combine both quantitative and qualitative data) is
described. This process includes systematic participant selection, elaboration on unexpected
results, and reporting on interactions between the two types of data.

Complementing Reliability and Validity: The passage emphasizes that reliability and validity
should be ensured at each stage and for each element or data type within the research. However,
it is equally important to establish reliability and validity when combining these different
elements and data types in mixed methods research.

Overall, this passage highlights the importance of rigorously addressing reliability and validity in
mixed methods research to ensure the quality and credibility of research findings. Researchers
must consider these factors at various stages and across different components of their research
design.

Mixed methods research questions

The key points regarding mixed methods research questions, as outlined in the passage you
provided, are as follows:

Research Questions Drive Mixed Methods Research: In mixed methods research (MMR), the
research questions play a central role. These questions necessitate the use of both quantitative
and qualitative data to answer them effectively. The choice of methodology in MMR is driven by
the research questions rather than the other way around.

Different MMR Designs for Different Research Purposes: The specific type of mixed
methods research design chosen depends on the research's purposes. These purposes can include
hypothesis testing, understanding, explanation, and democratization (which is discussed in the
context of critical theory). Different purposes may require different combinations of data
collection methods and analytical techniques.

Consider the Need for Mixing Methods: Researchers should carefully evaluate whether a
single method can adequately address their research question or problem. If a single method is
sufficient, there might be no need for mixed methods research. However, if both quantitative and
qualitative elements are needed to address the question, researchers should determine where and
how these methods should be mixed or kept separate.

The Importance of Strong Mixed Methods Research Questions: A strong mixed methods
study begins with well-crafted mixed methods research questions. These questions often ask
"what and how" or "what and why," reflecting their hybrid nature, combining both quantitative
and qualitative aspects. Such questions may be broken down into sub-questions that can be
addressed with either quantitative or qualitative data, which can later converge to provide a
comprehensive answer.

Mutual Informing and Integration: In MMR, it is essential that qualitative and quantitative
data mutually inform each other. Additionally, the research design itself should be structured to
ensure integration. This means that the design should not be biased toward one type of data, such
as a numerical survey.

Illustrative Example: An example of a mixed methods research question is provided: "What are
the problems of staff turnover in inner city schools, and why do they occur?" Qualitative data can
help identify the problems and provide various reasons for staff turnover, while quantitative data
can offer insights into the extent of the issue. These data types can later be combined or
transformed as needed to provide a comprehensive answer to the research question.

In summary, mixed methods research involves the thoughtful integration of quantitative and
qualitative data collection and analysis methods, guided by research questions that require both
types of data to address complex research problems effectively. The choice of methods and their
integration should align with the research's specific purposes and questions.

Sampling in mixed methods research

The passage you provided discusses the concept of sampling in the context of mixed methods
research (MMR). Mixed methods research is a research approach that combines both quantitative
and qualitative data collection and analysis methods to gain a more comprehensive
understanding of a research problem. Here are some key points from the passage:

Use of Different Types of Samples: In mixed methods research, it is common to use more than
one type of sample, including probability and non-probability samples. These samples can vary
in terms of size, scope, and types, which can include people, written materials, oral observations,
locations, times, events, and more.

Sampling in Quantitative Approaches: When conducting the quantitative component of MMR,

researchers should follow established principles of sampling relevant to quantitative research,
such as addressing issues related to sampling strategy, sample size calculation,
representativeness, and access to the sample. The size of the quantitative sample can vary based
on research goals and design.

Sampling in Qualitative Approaches: Similarly, when conducting the qualitative component of

MMR, researchers should adhere to the principles of sampling in qualitative research. This
includes considerations of sampling strategy, purposive sampling, representativeness, access, and
sample size, which can also vary based on research objectives.

Integration of Quantitative and Qualitative Samples: In MMR, researchers need to consider

how the samples from the quantitative and qualitative components interact. Questions include
whether the qualitative sample is drawn from the quantitative sample, whether the sizes of these
samples differ, and whether they address the same research questions.

Timing of Sampling: Researchers may need to decide at what point in the research process the
samples will be drawn. In some cases, the exact members of the sample may not be determined
until a specific stage of the research.

Principled Sampling: Researchers should base their sampling decisions on principles that align
with their research objectives. For example, in some cases, qualitative samples may be chosen to
include respondents with maximum variation in their responses to quantitative surveys.

Overlap of Samples: Researchers can choose whether to have entirely independent samples for
the quantitative and qualitative components or whether there should be some overlap of members
between the samples. The choice may depend on the research goals and design.

Types of Mixed Methods Sampling: The passage mentions different types of mixed methods
sampling, such as

1. parallel mixed methods sampling,

2. sequential mixed methods sampling,
3. multilevel mixed methods sampling,
4. stratified purposive sampling,
5. purposeful random sampling, and
 6. nested sampling designs.

These approaches allow researchers to combine quantitative and qualitative data effectively.

Alignment with Research Questions: The choice of sampling strategy should logically derive
from the research questions or hypotheses being investigated and should be consistent with the
assumptions underlying the selected strategies.

Ethical and Reporting Considerations: Sampling in mixed methods research should adhere to
ethical principles and be reported in sufficient detail to enable other researchers to understand
and potentially use the methods in the future.

Overall, this passage highlights the complexity of sampling in mixed methods research and the
importance of thoughtful and principled sampling decisions to ensure that both quantitative and
qualitative components of the research contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the
research problem.

Mixed methods data analysis

The key points regarding mixed methods data analysis, as outlined in the provided text, highlight
the complexity and iterative nature of combining quantitative and qualitative data in research.
Here are the main takeaways:

Holistic Integration: Mixed Methods Research (MMR) involves the integration of quantitative
and qualitative data, emphasizing the need to connect and combine these two types of data rather
than treating them separately.

Iterative Process: MMR involves an iterative process of data analysis, which may require
revisiting and reanalyzing both types of data as the research progresses.

Researcher's Decision-making: Researchers need to make several key decisions during the data
analysis phase, including:

1. Defining the purposes of data analysis during and after the research process.
2. Selecting appropriate tools for analysis (e.g., numbers, words, graphics).
3. Determining the relationship between quantitative and qualitative data (whether to
analyze them separately, independently, or together).
4. Sequencing and timing of data analysis.
5. Combining, comparing, and representing different types of data to answer research
questions.

Data Transformation: Data conversion or transformation is a critical aspect of MMR, where

qualitative data may be quantitized (converted into numbers) or quantitative data may be
qualitized (converted into narratives for qualitative analysis).
Integration Strategies: Researchers can employ various strategies for integrating and converting
data types, including data transformation, typology development, extreme case analysis, and data
consolidation/merging.

Maintaining Data Differences: MMR acknowledges that quantitative and qualitative data are
fundamentally different. Rather than trying to make them the same, researchers should focus on
how to effectively combine, relate, and merge them to address specific research questions.

Guidance from Research Questions: The logic of the research question guides the data analysis
process. Researchers should consider the nature of their research question and the strengths of
quantitative and qualitative data in addressing that question.

In summary, mixed methods data analysis is a comprehensive and flexible approach that
involves the thoughtful integration of quantitative and qualitative data to answer research
questions effectively. Researchers must make informed decisions throughout the process,
recognizing and leveraging the inherent differences between these two types of data.

Timing and writing up the data analysis in mixed methods research

The passage you've provided discusses various considerations related to timing and writing up
data analysis in mixed methods research (MMR). Here are the key points from the passage:

Integration of Quantitative and Qualitative Components: MMR aims to integrate quantitative

and qualitative research components in a way that they mutually illuminate each other. This
means that the research question cannot be sufficiently answered by using only one of these
methods; both types of data are needed.

Decisions in Writing Up Data Analysis: Researchers face several decisions when writing up
the data analysis in MMR, including when to conduct and write up the analysis, how to organize
the presentation, and whether one type of data or stage influences another.

Timing of Data Analysis: The timing of data analysis is critical, and it varies depending on the
research design. For example, in an explanatory design, quantitative data might precede
qualitative data, while in an exploratory design, the sequence may be reversed.

Organizing Data Analysis: The organization of data analysis and write-up can vary based on
the research design. In parallel designs, data analysis may be organized by research question,
data type, or theme. In sequential designs, it might be organized by stage/phase of the research.

Embedded Design: In embedded designs, one type of data is subordinate to another. The main
data may be presented first, with supplementary data following. The write-up may take the form
of a case study where quantitative and qualitative data are integrated into a narrative.
No Fixed Blueprint: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to conducting and writing up data
analysis in MMR. The choice of design and timing can be iterative and emergent, influenced by
the specific research context and question.

Clarity and Relevance: Regardless of the design chosen, clarity, relevance, and ease of
understanding are crucial in presenting the data analysis. The text of the write-up often includes
both numerical and textual elements.

Data-Driven Research Stages: Each stage of the research is driven by the data analysis at the
preceding stage. The logic of the research question and design determine when and how to
combine quantitative and qualitative data.

In summary, MMR involves the integration of quantitative and qualitative data, and the timing
and organization of data analysis can vary depending on the specific research design and
question. The key is to ensure that the data analysis process is driven by the research question
and that the presentation is clear and relevant to the research objectives.

2.6 Stages in mixed methods research

The passage you've provided outlines a twelve-step process for conducting mixed methods
research (MMR) as opposed to the seven-step process proposed by Creswell in 2012. Here are
the key points of this extended twelve-step process for conducting mixed methods research:

Decide the purpose of the research: Start by determining the overarching goals and objectives
of your research.

Decide the nature of the phenomenon or problem: Identify the specific issue or phenomenon
you want to study and justify why MMR is the most suitable approach for addressing it.

Decide the research questions: Formulate research questions that can only be fully answered by
collecting and analyzing mixed data.

Decide what is to be 'mixed' in MMR: Identify various elements that will be combined or
integrated in your research, including ontologies, paradigms, epistemologies, axiologies,
theories, research designs, methodologies, data types, data collection instruments, sampling,
data, and data analysis techniques.

Decide the stages and phases of the research: Determine where and when the mixing of
different methods and data types will occur within the overall research process, specifying which
methodologies and data are predominant at each stage or phase.

Decide the data collection: Plan the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data,
specifying what data is needed from whom, when, and at which stages or phases.
Design data-collection instruments and sampling: Create the tools and techniques for
gathering data, including surveys, interviews, observations, or other methods, and define your
sampling strategy.

Collect the data: Execute the data collection process according to your plan.

Plan the data analysis: Determine the purpose, priority, timing, and sequence of data analysis,
specifying when and how different data types will be integrated or kept separate.

Conduct the data analysis: Perform the data analysis, ensuring clarity on which data from
whom will be mixed, related, or kept separate, and specifying the timing of the analysis.

Decide how to organize and write the research report: Determine the structure and format of
your research report, including how to integrate different data types and where to address the
various elements identified in Step 4.

Write the research report: Compile your research findings into a comprehensive report,
following the organization plan developed in Step 11.

In a multi-phase research design, some steps may be repeated or their sequence altered to
accommodate the changing nature of the research. It's important to note that the research
question (Step 3) is not the starting point but is rather informed by prior considerations such as
the research's purpose and the nature of the problem being studied. This approach emphasizes the
importance of aligning the research question with the broader goals and context of the study.

2.7 Conclusion

The conclusion of the chapter discusses the concept of Mixed Methods Research (MMR) and its
implications in the context of social and educational research. Here are the key points
highlighted in this conclusion:

Pragmatic Paradigm: The chapter suggests that MMR is grounded in a pragmatic paradigm that
emphasizes practicality in addressing research purposes and questions. It aims to determine
"what works" in research, drawing from various ontological, epistemological, and axiological
foundations.

Coherence: The chapter moves from discussing paradigms, principles, ontologies, and
epistemologies to practical aspects of research, reflecting the practicality spirit of pragmatism
that underpins MMR.

Comprehensive Approach: MMR is described as an approach that encompasses various aspects

of the research process, including research design, questions, sampling, methodologies,
reliability, validity, data types, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
Challenges: The chapter raises some challenges associated with MMR. It questions whether
MMR truly represents a new paradigm and how it addresses the commensurability and
incommensurability of quantitative and qualitative research paradigms.

Advantages: Advocates of MMR see it as a valuable approach that offers real answers to real
questions, is useful in the real world, avoids strict allegiance to either quantitative or qualitative
approaches, enhances data richness, respects the complexities of the real world, and increases
validity and reliability.

Flexibility: MMR is noted for its flexibility, reflecting the integrated nature of the world and the
phenomena being studied. It draws from various methodologies, ontologies, epistemologies, and
values.

Integration: Researchers using MMR must view the world as integrated and approach research
with integrated purposes and questions, covering all stages of the research process.

Debate: There is an ongoing debate about whether MMR is genuinely a new paradigm or if it
simply combines existing quantitative and qualitative paradigms under a single label. This debate
also involves discussions about potential biases and preferences within MMR.

Complexity: MMR can be time-consuming, requiring researchers skilled in multiple methods

and the ability to combine them effectively. It may also lead to challenges when data from
different methods do not align.

Controversies: The chapter identifies various controversies surrounding MMR, such as defining
what MMR is, the relevance of quantitative and qualitative descriptors, its novelty, and the
dominance of certain paradigms within MMR.

Added Value: The final point addresses the question of what value MMR offers compared to
using quantitative or qualitative approaches independently.

Ongoing Exploration: Despite MMR being in use for decades, there are still unanswered
questions and opportunities for further exploration, including ethical considerations, team
approaches, adapting traditional research methods to MMR, and addressing emerging trends like
big data and analytics.

In summary, the conclusion underscores that MMR is a versatile approach with both strengths
and challenges, and researchers must carefully consider its fitness for their specific research
purposes. It also acknowledges that there are ongoing debates and opportunities for refinement
and expansion in the field of MMR.