Week 8 - Intro to Mixed Methods

Question 1

what is a mixed method

Answer 1

A mixed-methods approach combines both qualitative and quantitative data, often yielding a more complete and holistic understanding, especially in healthcare research.

Mixed methods can involve collecting data simultaneously or sequentially, integrating numeric and textual data into a single database.

Question 2

why do we use mixed methods

Answer 2

• to complement the data
• to develop data
• to understand paradoxed or contradictions
• to expand data

Question 3

what are the 4 type of mixed method designs

Answer 3

Convergent parallel design = Convergent parallel design is used to obtain different but complementary data on a topic. The purpose is to combine the strengths of each type of data

Explanatory sequential design = two-phased study. The first phase involves the collection of quantitative data that specifically addresses the study’s questions. In the second phase, qualitative data might be obtained to help explain or build on the initial quantitative results.

Exploratory sequential design = begins with and prioritises qualitative data. In this type of design, the results of the first stage (qualitative) are used to develop the second stage (quantitative). The design is based on the premise that exploration of an issue or concept is required first.

Embedded design = in health research, one dataset alone cannot fully explain the existence of patterns in the data. In an embedded design, the use of a mixed-method approach can offset these limitations by adding different types of data that provide a supportive secondary role.