In a convergent design overview, also known as convergent parallel design,
quantitative and qualitative data are collected at the same time and each is
evaluated on its own. Once the analyses are finished, the results are compared to
make overall conclusions.
For example, in a study that focused on cycling safety in Amsterdam, both
aspects of research are performed at the same time:
On the qualitative side, you examine cyclist complaints from the city’s database
and social media to identify which areas are viewed as dangerous and the
reasons behind those views.
On the quantitative side, you look at accident reports in the city’s database to
determine how often accidents happen in different parts of the city.
After completing data collection and analysis, you then compare the results and
integrate your findings.
What are the steps involved in conducting research using mixed methods?
There isn't a set procedure for conducting a mixed methods study. However, by
following the guidelines listed below, you can conduct mixed methods research:
Determine whether mixed-methods research is appropriate.
The first step is to determine whether mixed methods research can answer your
questions and offer the most relevant evidence needed for your project.
Determine your goal. Decide what you hope to achieve with the mixed methods
research design.
Is it to use one type of data's results to support, improve, clarify, or add to
another?
Pick the best design.
Select the best design among the three varieties of mixed methodologies in
research design.
1)Convergent design is appropriate when you need both qualitative and
quantitative data, have a restricted timeframe for data collection, and need to
obtain the necessary information in a single visit.
2)Explanatory design is suitable when the research issue is focused on
quantitative data and the necessary variables and tools for the study are
accessible.
3)Exploratory design is most effective when the variables are not certain and the
required instruments are not available. This is also the most effective mixed
methods research approach to apply when there is no theoretical framework for
the study.
Further steps in mixed methods research
Integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Findings:
This means integrating the results from both data sources to develop a more
comprehensive understanding of the research issue.
Recognizing Shared Themes:
Identify recurring patterns or themes that arise from both qualitative and
quantitative data.
Tackling Conflicting Results:
If inconsistencies or contradictory results are found, examine the causes of these
differences and think about how they could affect the overall interpretation.
Employing Various Integration Methods:
There are multiple methods for merging data, including triangulation (assessing
results from diverse sources), following a thread (utilizing insights from one
data source to direct the examination of another), or employing a mixed methods
matrix to arrange and exhibit the data.
Sure, please provide the text you would like me to paraphrase. Interpreting
Outcomes Within Context:
Situating Results:
Take into account the wider context of the study, encompassing the theoretical
framework, the demographic group, and the research environment.
Tackling Constraints:
Recognize any constraints of the study, including sample size, data gathering
techniques, or the breadth of the research inquiries.
Making Inferences:
Draw conclusions from the combined results, considering both the quantitative
and qualitative dimensions of the research.
