Abstract
This chapter seeks to investigate the use of convergent mixed methods design, explanatory mixed methods design, exploratory mixed methods design, embedded mixed method design, transformative mixed methods design, and multiphase mixed methods design in 61 mixed methods-based LIS doctoral dissertations and theses completed between 2006 and 2018, retrieved from the ProQuest Library Science Database. Their retrieval was achieved through search for the term “mixed methods” in the abstract, based on the assumption that each author mentions their research method in the abstract. The aim is to assess the effectiveness of mixed methods use, including advantages and possible challenges of each type. The premise for doing so is that the mixing of methods must be a deliberate, skillfully crafted, not a haphazardly concocted fusion.
TopDefining A Research Approach
A research approach is an essential element of research methodology, which directly affects specific research methods. Creswell (2014) defines the research approach as plans and procedures made and undertaken during an empirical study. These move from the broad assumptions to data collection methods, data analysis, and data interpretation. The research approach is made up of the philosophical worldviews and the methods employed in an empirical study that relate to that worldview (Creswell 2014). The research approach can be divided into inductive and deductive categories or qualitative and quantitative methods, respectively.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Design Complexity: Depends on the number of and extent to which components in multiple mixing depend on each other.
Research Approach: Based on the nature of a research question, it is a plan and procedure that consists of the steps of broad assumptions to detailed methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Timing or Sequence: The temporal relationship between the quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis in a mixed methods study (Plano, Clark, & Ivankova, 2016 AU14: The in-text citation "Plano, Clark, & Ivankova, 2016" is not in the reference list. Please correct the citation, add the reference to the list, or delete the citation. ).
Mixed Methods: A type of research in which a researcher or team of researchers combines elements of qualitative and quantitative research approaches.
Multimethod: Any combination of qualitative and/or quantitative methods.
Emergent Design: Refers to the ability to adapt to new ideas, concepts, or findings that arise while conducting qualitative research. It welcomes unanticipated information, often adding to the richness of the data.
Messiness of Mixed Methods Research: A concept used to recognize the inherent complex, dynamic, and undetermined nature of mixed methods research practice ( Plano Clark, & Ivankova, 2016 ).