Mixed Methods Designs: Principles and Procedures

Mixed methods research combines the strengths of qualitative and quantitative research by integrating at least one data collection and/or data analysis method from each. This approach offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of complex phenomena that may not be captured by one method alone (Johnson, Onwuegbuzie, & Turner, 2007).

Multimethod research is a broader term that encompasses any use of multiple research methods, including two qualitative or two quantitative methods. The use of mixed and multimethod research designs (MMRDs) is increasingly popular, as researchers seek to better capture and analyse the complexity of their research questions. These designs are continuously evolving, and innovative techniques are being developed to further enhance their effectiveness.

Key Topics Covered

Topic 1: Introduction and overview

• Why go mixed’ (how to justify)?
• Definition, terminology
• Two main rationales for MMD

Topic 2: Epistemological underpinning and early uses

• Early uses of MMR
• Battle of methods or battle pf paradigms?

Topic 3: Basic MMR designs

• Sequential designs
• Concurrent designs
• Nested designs

Topic 4: Advanced MMR designs, sampling procedures

• Convergent findings
• Additional coverage
• Connected contributions
• Iterative designs, including FOMM
• Sampling procedures

Topic 5: Data quality, reporting, ethics

• Data quality criteria
• Reporting challenges
• Ethical issues

How the course will work online

The course consists of two main formats: an asynchronous format (receiving access to diverse resources prior the start of the ‘live’ sessions), and a synchronous format during the 5 days of daily 3 hour live sessions on Zoom. You are able to manage your time in a flexible way during the first asynchronous phase, in order to navigate through the resources, preparing for the live sessions. 

In the asynchronous part of the course, there are the following elements: 

• Full-text preparatory readings;
• A Moodle forum to start interacting with me & with the other participants;
• Pre-recorded lectures for each of the five topics;
• A list of assignments to be delivered before each ‘live’ session.

Each daily session will be three hours and organised as follows (naturally with a bit of flexibility, if need be):

• Q&A session about the topic of the day: seminar-style discussions based on the specific MMD issue in pre-recorded lectures, and the preparatory readings for the day. Any point(s) that still need to be clarified beyond the Moodle forum discussion, if applicable;
• Working in breakout rooms (sub-groups of 4 participants): discussions based on the pre-session assignment prepared by each participant, with the instructor ‘hopping’ from room to room;
• Plenary ‘lessons learned’ session: Participants highlight some main points & lessons learned, before the live session commences.

For each daily breakout room session, one participant will be responsible for taking short minutes. There will also be a short list of recommended prior readings that will be sent to you ahead of the course starting. 

The instructor will also conduct live Q&A sessions and offer designated office hours for one-to-one consultations.

Prerequisite Knowledge

You should have a basic knowledge in qualitative and quantitative methods, understanding the basic ontological, epistemological and methodological difference between qualitative and quantitative data collection methods.

No prior knowledge of Mixed Methods Designs, specifically, is required.

If you are unsure if you possess the prerequisite knowledge that is requested to be able to follow this course, please contact the instructor. The instructor will not teach these prerequisite items.

Learning commitment

As a participant in this course, you will engage in a variety of learning activities designed to deepen your understanding and mastery of the subject matter. While the cornerstone of your learning experience will be the daily live teaching sessions, which total three hours each day across the five days of the course, your learning commitment extends beyond these sessions.

Upon payment and registration for the course, you will gain access to our Learning Management System (LMS) approximately two weeks before the course start date. Here, you will have access to course materials such as pre-course readings. The time commitment required to familiarise yourself with the content and complete any pre-course tasks is estimated to be approximately 20 hours per week leading up to the start date.

During the course week, you are expected to dedicate approximately two-three hours per day to prepare and work on assignments.

Each course offers the opportunity to be awarded three ECTS credits. Should you wish to earn a 4th credit, you will need to complete a post-course assignment, which will involve approximately 25 hours of work.

This comprehensive approach ensures that you not only attend the live sessions but also engage deeply with the course material, participate actively, and complete assessments to solidify your learning.

Disclaimer

This course description may be subject to subsequent adaptations (e.g. taking into account new developments in the field, participant demands, group size, etc.). Registered participants will be informed at the time of change.

By registering for this course, you confirm that you possess the knowledge required to follow it. The instructor will not teach these prerequisite items. If in doubt, please contact us before registering.