Crossing Boundaries: Use of a Sequential Mixed Methods Design in Order to Analyze Interdepartmental Collaboration

• In Event: Poster Session 4
  In Poster Session: Posters About Mixed Methods Research

Abstract

In this study, the authors identify the quality, frequency, and meaning of interactions in academic collaboration. In order to identify behaviors within highly effective units, a sequential, qual→ QUAN → QUAL mixed methods analysis was employed. In the first stage, semi-structured interviews of academic leaders from various fields were conducted to operationalize the concepts of collaboration across research foci. In the second phase, they administered a survey to all tenure-track faculty at the research site and conducted a social network analysis to identify network density, centralization, and variations. Finally, they use these data to purposefully select units for a comparative ethnographic case study to identify behaviors and practices that sustain, encourage, and inhibit interaction.

Authors

• Veronica Cavera, American Water Works Association

• Kevin Crouse, Rutgers University - New Brunswick/Piscataway

• Jeanette Joyce, Rutgers University