Paradigms Redefined: Synthesizing Four Perspectives for Mixed-Methods Researchers

• In Event: Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: Mixed Methods Roundtable

Abstract

While over a decade ago, the “paradigmatic foundations for mixed methods research” was identified as a major issue (Teddlie & Tashakkori, 2003), it is still discussed today (e.g. Freshwater & Cahill, 2013). The purpose of this paper is to synthesize the four main perspectives put forth as potential paradigms for mixed methods research: pragmatism, transformative, dialectic and realism. Utilizing theoretical and empirical research articles, this paper summarizes each paradigm perspective paying particular attention to their implications for mixed methods. This paper concludes by arguing against the adoption of a single paradigm perspective for mixed methods research, and instead for allowing flexibility for researchers to choose that which supports their own beliefs and research design.

Author

• Peggy Shannon-Baker, University of Cincinnati