Mixed Methods Research

What is mixed method?

A procedure for collecting, analyzing, and

“mixing both quantitative and qualitative
methods in a single study or a series of studies
to understand a research problem
(Creswell & Plano Clark, 2011)
 Reasons to use

When you need both quantitative and qualitative data

When both data provide better understanding of your

research problem
Seek to build the strengths of both school of thoughts
When one method is not enough to address the
problem
To provide alternative perspective in a study
 Types of mixed methods
Convergent
Parallel Design
Explanatory
Multiphase Sequential
Design Design

Exploratory
Transformative
Sequential
Design
Design

Embedded
Design
Convergent Parallel Design

Simultaneous data collection of both

quantitative and qualitative data

Merge the data and use the result to

understand a research problem

Complement one another

Assess whether the results support or

contradict each other

The direct comparison provides the

“convergence” of the data

Equal priority to both methods

 Explanatory Sequential Design

Also called two-phase model

Collects quantitative data followed by qualitative data to

help explain quantitative results

Priority on quantitative data , qualitative data is

secondary

Qualitative data is used to refine the results from the

quantitative data
Exploratory Sequential Designs
Starts with qualitative data
collection followed by
quantitative

Plans on the quantitative

First gather qualitative
data to build on or
data to explore a
explain the initial
phenomenon
qualitative findings.

Could start with

interviews or Enable researcher to
observation with a small identify themes, design
number of individuals an instrument, and
followed by survey with subsequently test it.
large samples

Used when existing

instruments, variables, and
Emphasize on qualitative
measures may not be
data
known or available for the
population under study
 Embedded Design
Is similar to both the parallel and sequential design

Collect quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously or sequentially but

to have one form of data play supportive role to the other form.

The supportive data supports the primary form of data

Both forms of data are collected at roughly the same time or in sequence

Uses the secondary form of data to augment or provide additional sources

of information not provided by the primary source of data

May address a different question

 Transformative Design
To use one of the four designs but to encase the design within a
transformative framework

Focus on the underrepresented and marginalized groups.

To bring about change to the groups

The key lies in whether the research calls for reform or changes at the
end of the study

Explicit request for change or steps required for the change to take
place
 Multiphase Design
Is a design that builds on the basic convergent, explanatory,
exploratory, and embedded designs

Using a series of phases or separate studies

To address a set of incremental research questions

The use of multiple projects to best understand an overall program

objectives

Teams should composed of individuals with quantitative, qualitative

and mixed methods research skills.
Steps in conducting a mixed method study

1. Determine if a mixed methods study is feasible

2. Identify a rationale for mixing methods
3. Identify a data collection strategy
4. Develop quantitative, qualitative and mixed
method questions
5. Collect quantitative and qualitative data
6. Analyze data separately, concurrently or both
7. Write the report as a one or two phase study or a
multiple-phase study
Thank You