Doing a mixed methods research or evaluation project

Abstract

Mixed methods research is a cutting-edge methodology that uses an integrated approach for collecting qualitative and quantitative data. Educational researchers can use mixed procedures to research teaching interventions or evaluate effectiveness of education strategies to achieve a holistic understanding that is greater than just a sum of the individual parts. As many approaches can be used to research a specific topic, consider completing a methods-choosing exercise. This chapter focuses on critical elements for conducting an integrated mixed methods study. Mixed methods research questions should include both a quantitative and qualitative component. Mixed methods researchers commonly use three core designs and depict their procedures using a procedural diagram. They are the explanatory sequential, the exploratory sequential and the convergent mixed methods research design. Finally, the analysis of mixed method data is discussed. While mixed methods projects encumber additional work, collecting and analysing both stories and numbers as in clinical work can be rewarding.