Insights from Approaches to Mixed Methods Research: Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Data in the Social Sciences

• In Event: 30402 - New Insights from Multiple Methods and Measures

Abstract

In a recent book, Approaches to Mixed Methods Research (Pearce and Hardie 2024), we offer a guide to researchers who would like to begin or expand their use of mixed methods research. Our book offers both guidance and examples from four “moments” in the research process: defining research questions, selecting a sample, constructing data collection tools (sample chapter below), and analyzing data. In doing so, we define mixed methods research as a research approach that weaves together strands of qualitative and quantitative data to speak to and enhance each other, resulting in a more holistic body of evidence. We take a flexible approach to this research, drawing inspiration from the more formalized field of mixed methods research but recognizing there is a lot of excellent social research occurring beyond the confines (i.e., not using the same vocabulary) of said field. We provide here a discussion of mixed methods research at all stages of the process and discuss common concerns, such as getting published, receiving grants, and (for graduate student and early career researchers) getting done with the work in a timely fashion. We also draw on exemplars of mixed methods research that have combined approaches in unique ways.

Authors

• Lisa D. Pearce, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

• Jessica Halliday Hardie, CUNY-Hunter College