Developing Credible Conclusions: Findings From a Mixed-Method Content Analysis of Research Exemplars

• In Event: Achieving Quality in Mixed Methods Research: Examining Research Contexts and Methods

Abstract

The concluding section of a research publication is more than a summary of results. It is a combination of low- and high-level interpretive inferences produced by the researcher. This mixed method content analysis was conducted to compare patterns of usage of inferences in exemplar qualitative and mixed methods articles. Articles identified as exemplars are distinguished by the interconnected use of a variety of inference types. Most notably, these articles are characterized by the linking of references to the literature to many other types of inferences. Linking highly speculative, often theoretical or explanatory statements with the literature bolsters the argument that the conclusions are warranted. The article concludes with recommendations about how to craft credible conclusions to research publications.

Authors

• Elizabeth G. Creamer, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

• Cherie D Edwards, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

• Peter Musaeus, Aarhus University