Mixed-Methods Research
Dorothy Lall
Abstract
Mixed-methods research emerged in the late 1970s as a methodological approach that uses both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods in one single study. In this article, I present an overview of what mixed-methods research is and identify its defining features. Key considerations in designing mixed-methods research are priority, sequence, stage of integration and use of theory. Each of these is discussed briefly with pointers that could serve as a starting point in designing a mixed-methods research. There is a brief description of the core mixed-methods research designs, namely convergent, exploratory sequential and explanatory sequential, with some examples relevant to the Indian context. Finally, I present some challenges commonly faced in conducting mixed-methods research.