Mixed Methods
Mixed methods is a research approach in which quantitative and qualitative data in a single study are collected, analyzed, and mixed.
Lauren Houghton, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Epidemiology at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.
Introduction
Quantitative methods are etic and deductive, while qualitative methods are emic and inductive. By intergrating the quantitative and qualitative methods, mixed methods use the strengths of both research methods to understand different parts of the same phenomenon.
Key Concepts
Building a mixed methods research question, choosing a study design, and integrating quantitative and qualitative data are key concepts in the mixed methods approach.
Challenges
Sampling issues, and conflicting and contradicting results are some of the challenges in mixed methods research.
Future Directions
Complex study designs, integrating mixed methods with causal inference, and bringing "emics" into 'omics are some future directions of mixed methods research.
Resources
TTIPP Figure
Study Design Table
| Mixed Methods Design | Theoretical Lens | Timing | Integration | Methodological Rationale | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sequential Explanatory Design |
Implicit | Sequential - beginning with quantitative phase |
Data Analysis stage (connected) and Interpretation stage (merged) |
Complementarity | Quantitative data |
| Sequential Exploratory Design |
Explicit | Sequential - beginning with qualitative phase |
Data Analysis stage (connected) and Interpretation stage (merged) |
Development, Complementarty, and/or expansion |
Qualitative data |
| Concurrent Convergent Design |
Implicit | Concurrent | Data Analysis (separated) and Interpretation stage (merged) |
Triangulation | Equal - both quantitative and qualitative data |
| Concurrent Embedded Design |
Implicit or explicit |
Concurrent | Data Analysis (data transformed and/or merged) and Interpretation stage (merged) |
Complementarity, initiation, and/or expansion |
Unequal |
Tools
The EMICS (Epidemiology and Mixed Methods Informing Causal Studies) Tool
Articles
Best Practices for Mixed Methods Research in the Health Sciences
Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research
Achieving Integration in Mixed Methods Designs—Principles and Practices