Mixed Research Methods

Mixed Research Methods

Mixed research combines qualitative and quantitative methods within a single study to complement each other (Hughes, 2016). Even though qualitative and quantitative methods have different theoretical foundations, combining can increase the credibility and reliability of findings. For instance, the qualitative approach is exploratory in nature and relevant in studies based on interpretivism philosophy. On the contrary, a quantitative research method is appropriate in studies founded on positivism philosophy and deductive approach (Grove et al., 2015). Besides different theoretical foundations, mixed research has become a popular research methodology in contemporary studies. Finally, the mixed method also involves stakeholders from the community via a community-based participatory approach.

The main advantage associated with the mixed method research healthcare is the ability to mitigate the limitations of each method, thus enhancing the credibility and reliability of findings (Regnault, Willgoss, & Barbic, 2018). Therefore, qualitative data augment quantitative results. Secondly, the mixed method facilitates a complete and synergistic use of data as opposed to doing separate research. Thirdly, mixed methods help in validating study results based on qualitative and quantitative data. The researcher can use convergent design to compare results from a different data source and use parallel constructs to assess the information. Data is evaluated separately and compared to validate each other and draw a conclusion about the intervention.

The first limitation of using a mixed-method in nursing research is the increased complexity of the study. The mixed-method analysis is complex to plan and conduct because careful planning is needed to define different aspects of research. Mixed method research requires a multidisciplinary team comprising experts in qualitative and quantitative studies (Hughes, 2016). Finally, increased resources are needed in conducting the mixed research.

References

Grove, S., Gray, J., Burns, N. (2015). Understanding Nursing Research, 6th Edition. [Pageburstl]. Retrieved from https://pageburstls.elsevier.com/#/books/9781455770601/

Hughes, A. S. (2016). Mixed methods research. APS Observer, 29(5).

Regnault, A., Willgoss, T., & Barbic, S. (2018). Towards the use of mixed methods inquiry as best practice in health outcomes research. Journal of patient-reported outcomes, 2(1), 1-4.