Designing Mixed-Methods Research Around Mixed-Reality Simulation: An Exemplar Exploring Conversations About Team Conflict

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Methodological Decisions in Multiple- and Mixed-Methods Research (Table 32)

Abstract

This methodological discussion argues that, combined with mixed methods research (MMR), mixed reality simulation (MRS) is a powerful tool for exploring social conflict in common real world situations. There are many ways to conduct simulation-centered research with the potential to inform equitable educational improvement. However, we found little discussion of complications related to designing a MMR study around a MRS. We present lessons learned from conducting a MMR+MRS study of teaching assistants’ conversations with undergraduate engineering students experiencing conflict on a semester-long team-based project. We discuss important considerations for constructing a MRS scenario and making MMR design decisions (i.e., sampling, collecting data, drawing inferences). This paper will be valuable to researchers considering simulation-centered designs and practitioners using simulation for instruction.

Authors

• Marcia Gail Headley, University of Delaware

• Pamela S. Lottero-Perdue, Towson University

• Haritha Malladi, University of Delaware