Social Network Analysis: An Example of Fusion Between Quantitative and Qualitative Methods. (January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yousefi Nooraie, Reza; Sale, Joanna E. M.; Marin, Alexandra; Ross, Lori E.
• Is Part Of: Journal of mixed methods research. Volume 14:Number 1(2020:Jan.)
• Page Start: 110
• Page End: 124
• Publication Date: 2020-01
• Subjects: social network analysis -- fused analysis -- mixed methods; Mixed methods research -- Periodicals; Social sciences -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Research -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; 507.21
• DOI: 10.1177/1558689818804060
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1558-6898

Abstract

A quantitative approach to social network analysis involves the application of mathematical and statistical techniques and graphical presentation of results. Nonetheless—as with all sciences—subjectivity is an integral aspect of network analysis, manifested in the selection of measures to describe connection patterns and actors' positions (e.g., choosing a centrality indicator), in the visualization of social structure in graphs, and in translating numbers into words (telling the story). Here, we use network research as an example to illustrate how quantitative and qualitative approaches, techniques, and data are mixed along a continuum of fusion between quantitative and qualitative realms.