Mixed Methods Research Framework Research Articles

Principals’ and Teachers’ Use of Evaluation Results for Student Learning in Science

This study aimed to promote the use of evaluation results by principals and teachers to support and engage students in learning science. Using the concepts of collaborative working and needs assessment, the study specifically designed a three-phase, firstly to complete needs assessment then to imply the programs and to focus on the conclusion and reflection in the third phase. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed using the mixed methods research framework. The results revealed that teachers and administrators partly use the evaluation results as a benchmark to improve the instructional activities.

Leveraging power of learning capability upon manufacturing operations

Learning capability (LC) is a special dynamic capability that a firm purposefully builds to develop a cognitive focus, so as to enable the configuration and improvement of other capabilities (both dynamic and operational) to create and respond to market changes. Empirical evidence regarding the essential role of LC in leveraging operational manufacturing capabilities is, however, limited in the literature. This study takes a routine-based approach to understand capability, and focuses on demonstrating leveraging power of LC upon two essential operational capabilities within the manufacturing context, i.e., operational new product development capability (ONPDC), and operational supplier integration capability (OSIC). A mixed-methods research framework was used, which combines sources of evidence derived from a survey study and a multiple case study. This study identified high-level routines of LC that can be designed and controlled by managers and practitioners, to reconfigure underlying routines of ONPDC and OSIC to achieve superior performance in a turbulent environment. Hence, the study advances the notion of knowledge-based dynamic capabilities, such as LC, as routine bundles. It also provides an impetus for managing manufacturing operations from a capability-based perspective in the fast changing knowledge era.

Mapping mixed methods research in library and information science journals in Sub-Saharan Africa 2004–2008

The purpose of this article is to explore the use of mixed methods research (MMR) in articles published in library and information science (LIS) journals in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) from 2004 to 2008. A mixed methods research framework provided in the methodological literature is used to determine how this method was practiced within the LIS scientific community in SSA. Six hundred and eighty five articles published in nine peer-reviewed LIS journals in SAA were reviewed, finding the dominant research methods in these journals to be survey designs and historical research. The use of MMR was limited: 48 out of 685 articles used the mixed methods approaches that were identified in the methodological literature. A paradigm shift and a change of mindset are recommended for LIS researchers in SSA so that they may exploit the advantages offered by mixed methods research in conducting their studies.

Mapping mixed methods research in library and information science journals in Sub-Saharan Africa 2004–2008

The purpose of this article is to explore the use of mixed methods research (MMR) in articles published in library and information science (LIS) journals in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) from 2004 to 2008. A mixed methods research framework provided in the methodological literature is used to determine how this method was practiced within the LIS scientific community in SSA. Six hundred and eighty five articles published in nine peer-reviewed LIS journals in SAA were reviewed, finding the dominant research methods in these journals to be survey designs and historical research. The use of MMR was limited: 48 out of 685 articles used the mixed methods approaches that were identified in the methodological literature. A paradigm shift and a change of mindset are recommended for LIS researchers in SSA so that they may exploit the advantages offered by mixed methods research in conducting their studies.

Exploring Citizen Involvement in the Restoration of the Florida Everglades

Through a mixed methods research framework, this article examines the role and relevance of conceptual areas believed to shape citizen involvement in environmental restoration, with a particular focus on the Florida Everglades. Included are personal characteristics, individual attitudes, information sources, levels of social interaction, and resource management options. Using input from key informants and south Florida residents, qualitative data were collected to identify attitudes and opinions toward perceptions on communicating scientific information and opportunities for citizen engagement in Everglades restoration. Next, quantitative data collected through a mail survey of residents identified factors shaping awareness of Everglades issues, public decision-making processes, and citizen desires to actively participate in restoration efforts. Such information contributes to a better understanding of the potential for citizen involvement in natural resource management and environmental restoration. From this research, implications and suggestions for increasing local citizen involvement in local environmental planning, programs, and restoration are presented.