Definition, rationale, and characteristics of mixed-methods research.

1. Mixed-Method Research in
Social Sciences
----------------
What, why, how?
By
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan,
Department of Education,
Hazara University.
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra, Email:
drmuhammadilyaskhan7@gmail.com

2. Definition of Mixed Methods Research
• Mixed Methods Research Design is located within the
pragmatic paradigm which emphasizes ends over means.
• The focus of research is deemed to be on exploring answers to
research questions using a variety of ways rather than
implementing a particular paradigmatic position
• A combination of quantitative and qualitative data to explore
research issues/questions
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

3. Characteristics of Mixed-Methods
Research
• Represents pragmatic or non-paradigmatic research stance
• Combines qualitative and quantitative data collection
techniques
• Comines qualitative and quantitative data analysis
techniques
• Data collection process could be: Simultaneous, Sequential
or Embedded
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

4. Rationale for mixed methods research
• Bringing rigour and richness to the data collected for
exploring an issue
• Triangulation of data sources/methods (Authentication)-
Supporting findings
• Generalisation of exploratory studies
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

5. Precautions in doing Mixed-Methods
Research
• Justification (Why you need to conduct mixed methods
research?)
• Feasibility (Is it doable?)
• Expertise needed (Have you as a researcher got the
skills to deal with the complexities involved in doing
mixed methods research?)
• Don’t mix it up!
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

6. Suggested Readings
• Morgan, D.L. (2007). Paradigms lost and pragmatism
regained: Methodological implications of combining
qualitative and quantitative methods. Journal of Mixed
Methods Research, 1(1),48-76.
• Creswell, J.W. (2003). Research Design: Qualitative,
quantitative, and mixed methods approaches.
Thousand Oaks: Sage
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra