Qualitative Research

This study design combines quantitative research design and qualitative research design. Mixed methods research involves collecting quantitative and qualitative data, and analysis of the data integrates both forms of data.

Specific mixed methods designs:

Convergent Mixed Methods Design - One phase design where both quantitative and qualitative data collected and analyzed, then compared the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data to see if the data confirms or disconfirms each other.

Explanatory Sequential Design - Two phase design where quantitative data is collected and analyzed first, then qualitative data is collected and analyzed based on the quantitative results. The qualitative data is used to explain the quantitative data.

Exploratory Sequential Design - Three phase design where qualitative data is collected and analyzed to inform theory, instrument, etc. for testing. The quantitative phase is used to test the theory, instrument, etc. with the results further developing the theory, instrument, etc.

Creswell, J.W., & Creswell, J.D. (2018). Mixed methods procedures. In, Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed., pp. 213-246). Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.

See NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research.

Finding mixed method studies will require the use of keyword search terms. Consider combining your search terms on the topic of interest with these keywords:

(mixed-methods OR multimethod OR multi-method OR convergent design OR explanatory sequential design OR exploratory sequential design)