Mixed Methods Research: An Overview for Beginner Researchers

Abstract

Mixed methods research design implicates merging or incorporating qualitative and quantitative research and data in a single study. Though the advantages of employing mixed methods are convincing, the methodology has some shortcomings. Lack of time, energy and resources pose main obstacles behind not undertaking mixed methodology as research design. Other than the operational issues there are criticisms regarding the philosophical underpinning and research method typologies. However, as this methodology is the combination of two dominant research genres, it has the potential to offset the shortcomings of one single method and therefore, offers more validity and reliability to the findings of a research. The aim of this article is to acquaint the beginner researchers with the pros and cons of mixed methods research which has an immense potentiality to be employed in various fields of academia including social sciences, health science, and technology.

Keywords: Mixed methods research, philosophical underpinning, rationale, controversy, potentiality.

DOI: 10.7176/JLLL/58-05

Publication date:July 31^st 2019