5.3 Key Attributes of Mixed Methods Research

Listed below are the five key attributes or characteristics of mixed methods research design.12 

  • Collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data
  • The procedure is framed within philosophical worldviews or theoretical lenses
  • It utilises research designs that match the research question
  • It involves the integration or mixing of the two forms of data ( merges, builds, or embeds)
  • It involves rigorous processes when using both forms of data

Remember the opening scenario about Stephanie and Joane deciding to order both Sukiyaki and Tonkatsu and share the meals? How do you think the scenario can be likened to mixed methods research in relation to these key attributes?

 

General steps for conducting mixed methods research

While there are no hard and fast rules for designing a mixed-methods study, the general steps below (Figure 5.1) should provide some guidance, especially for researchers who are new to mixed methods studies.13

Figure 5.2 Steps for conducting mixed method research by Bunmi Malau-Aduli and Faith Alele, used under a CC BY NC 4.0 licence 

 

 

 

Licence

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An Introduction to Research Methods for Undergraduate Health Profession Students Copyright © 2023 by Faith Alele and Bunmi Malau-Aduli is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.