Towards a Comprehensive Meta-Framework for Full Integration in Mixed Methods Research

Abstract

The field of mixed methods research has evolved substantially since the declaration by Teddlie and Tashakkori (2003) that “the [mixed methods] field is just entering its ‘adolescence’ and that there are many unresolved issues to address before a more matured mixed methods research area can emerge” (p. 3), which has led Onwuegbuzie and Hitchcock (2019a) to declare that the field has entered “emerging adulthood” (p. 18). Unfortunately, the conventional dichotomous distinction between quantitative and qualitative approaches still very much remains. And although the use of the word “integration” has increased in recent years, the overwhelming majority of articles have involved only partial integration, representing what Fetters and Freshwater (2015) referred to as the “1 + 1 = 3 integration formula” (p. 116). Enter the Routledge Handbook for Advancing Integration in Mixed Methods Research! The overall goal of this book has been to further the development of integration ideas within the field of mixed methods research. The seven sections in this Handbook reflect our attempt to promote optimal and diverse integration. However, in the current chapter, we have attempted to go even further by deconstructing what full(er) integration means within the context of Onwuegbuzie’s (2017) and Onwuegbuzie et al.’s (2019a, p. 18) “1 + 1 = 1 integration formula.” Our deconstruction has led us to identify seven broad elements within our meta-framework wherein researchers can strive towards full(er) integration. These elements comprise integrating (a) quantitative and qualitative research approaches, (b) mixed methods research and multimethod research approaches, (c) disciplines/fields, (d) arts and sciences, (e) Global North and Global South researchers, (f) online and offline spaces, and (g) researchers and participants. These seven elements are by no means exhaustive; however, they represent major avenues for attaining full(er) integration. Therefore, we hope that this chapter in particular and this Handbook in general represents an important step towards advancing integration among mixed methods researchers and beyond.