Philosophical foundations of mixed methods research: Implications for research practice.

In this article, a 13-step model is presented that researchers can follow in designing their own multimethodology research. A distinction is made between mixed methodology research, which contains two or more separate research strands, each designed according to a different methodology, and merged methodology research, in which a researcher creates a new methodology by combining elements from existing methodologies. First, the building blocks of our multimethodology approach are described, namely, research questions, methodologies, remote research purposes, immediate research purposes, research purpose types, scope, research strands, purpose of mixing, purpose of merging, and mixed and merged methodologies. Next, the 13-step model is presented, in which the building blocks are brought together in a coherent framework. The 13-step model is demonstrated using two real-life examples from research practice.

The Prevalence of Philosophical Assumptions Described in Mixed Methods Research in Education

Journal of Mixed Methods Research ◽

10.1177/1558689820958210 ◽

2020 ◽

pp. 155868982095821

Author(s):

Adam Coates

Keyword(s):

Mixed Methods ◽

Mixed Methods Research ◽

Research Process ◽

Research Practice ◽

Alternative Models ◽

Research Education ◽

Reporting Practices ◽

Research In Education

Philosophical arguments are expected to provide the foundation of research and should be mentioned when reporting research. This study explores the presentation of philosophical assumptions in 1,026 mixed methods research (MMR) articles from the field of education. Eighty-one papers (7.9%) provided philosophical commitments, and 31 distinct stances were claimed. Philosophy was presented with different roles, including that philosophical stance can direct the decision to use mixed methods or result from that choice. This article contributes the field of MMR by highlighting an oversight in the reporting practices of the MMR community. Possible causes for the findings include weaknesses in research education and knowledge. Alternative models of the research process may be required to accurately match descriptions of research practice.

Where is Mixed Methods Research Headed?: Applying the Field in Your Mixed Methods Research Practice

Mixed Methods Research: A Guide to the Field ◽

10.4135/9781483398341.n14 ◽

2018 ◽

pp. 273-296

Keyword(s):

Mixed Methods ◽

Mixed Methods Research ◽

Research Practice