{"id":355,"date":"2025-06-03T11:07:56","date_gmt":"2025-06-03T11:07:56","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.greencarsnow.com\/?p=355"},"modified":"2025-06-06T09:35:16","modified_gmt":"2025-06-06T09:35:16","slug":"mixed-methods-research-simply-explained","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.greencarsnow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/03\/mixed-methods-research-simply-explained\/","title":{"rendered":"Mixed Methods Research Simply Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"

In previous posts I shared here and elsewhere, I discussed both qualitative research<\/a> and quantitative research<\/a> and in this post, I talk about mixed methods research. I also created an illustrative visual that you can download for free at the bottom of this page.<\/p>\n

What is Mixed Methods Research?<\/h2>\n

Creswell (2019) defines mixed methods research as <\/p>\n

\n

\u201can approach to inquiry that combines or associates both qualitative and quantitative forms. It involves philosophical assumptions, the use of qualitative and quantitative approaches, and the mixing of both approaches in a study. Thus, it is more than simply collecting and analyzing both kinds of data; it also involves the use of both approaches in tandem so that the overall strength of a study is greater than either qualitative or quantitative research.\u201d (p. 4)<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

    <\/ol>\n

    As for Johnson et al., (2007), mixed methods research is <\/p>\n

    \n

    \u201cgenerally speaking, an approach to knowledge (theory and practice) that attempts to consider multiple viewpoints, perspectives, positions, and standpoints (always including the standpoints of qualitative and quantitative research).\u201d ( p. 113)<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

    Both definitions highlight what makes mixed methods research distinct: it\u2019s not just about combining two types of data collection, it\u2019s about integrating two ways of thinking. Creswell (2019) emphasizes the intentional blending of methods to enhance the overall strength of the study, while Johnson et al. (2007) bring attention to the epistemological breadth of mixed methods, showing how it encourages researchers to consider diverse perspectives and standpoints. Together, these definitions underscore the value of methodological pluralism in producing richer, more nuanced understandings of complex research questions.<\/p>\n

    2. Philosophical foundation<\/h2>\n

    At the heart of mixed methods research lies a pragmatic philosophical foundation. Rather than being anchored in a single worldview, pragmatism prioritizes what works in addressing the research problem. It values flexibility, context, and practical outcomes over abstract debates. This orientation allows researchers to draw on both qualitative and quantitative tools, acknowledging the value of diverse perspectives, methods, and interpretations. In doing so, it offers a balanced and adaptable approach to understanding complex questions.<\/p>\n

    Here are some of the things that characterize the pragmatic approach in research:<\/p>\n