A discussion of some controversies in mixed methods research for emerging researchers. Issue 3 (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Adu, Joseph; Owusu, Mark Fordjour; Martin-Yeboah, Ebenezer; Pino Gavidia, Lisbeth Alexandra; Gyamfi, Sebastian
• Is Part Of: Methodological innovations. Volume 15:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 321
• Page End: 330
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Mixed methods research -- controversy -- emerging researchers -- qualitative and quantitative approaches -- research paradigms; Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Social sciences -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 300.72
• DOI: 10.1177/20597991221123398
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2059-7991

Abstract

Mixed methods research has become an important approach to research worldwide. The combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods has made it possible for a deeper and broader understanding of multifaceted phenomena, thereby offering readers more confidence in research findings and conclusions. The use of mixed method designs became more established in the 1980s and early 1990s, but some controversies surrounding the approach remain. Nonetheless, experts in the field of mixed methods research have continued to work on the central premise that the use of qualitative and quantitative approaches, in combination, provides a better understanding of research problems than either approach alone. This concept paper discusses some of the known controversies around mixed methods with the aim of providing useful insights to emerging researchers interested in learning the methodology.