What is a mixed methods study design?

A mixed methods study design is an approach that intentionally integrates both qualitative and quantitative data within a single research project. The aim is to obtain a more complete, panoramic understanding of the research problem than either method could provide alone. In mixed methods research, integration occurs purposefully at multiple stages, including data collection, data analysis and interpretation, not simply by using two methods side by side.

Mixed methods studies are not the same as multimethod studies. In multimethod research, multiple methods may be used, but they typically fall within the same qualitative or quantitative tradition. Mixed methods requires the explicit combination of both.

What mixed methods research typically involves

Mixed methods studies strategically bring together:

• Qualitative data: Such as interviews, focus groups or observations
• Quantitative data: Such as surveys, measurements or statistical datasets
• Integration across phases: Purposeful merging or connecting of qualitative and quantitative strands
• Interpretation of combined findings: To produce a richer, more comprehensive understanding

This integration strengthens the ability to answer complex research questions.

Why researchers use mixed methods

Researchers choose mixed methods when the research question requires:

• Depth of understanding (qualitative)
• Breadth, measurement or generalisability (quantitative)
• A combination that neither approach alone can achieve

Mixed methods can also help researchers explore unexpected findings, explain quantitative results or add context to patterns revealed in numerical data.

Common mixed methods designs

Although your slides do not list them explicitly, mixed methods research commonly includes designs such as:

• Convergent design: Collecting qualitative and quantitative data at the same time and integrating the findings
• Explanatory sequential design: Collecting quantitative data first, then using qualitative data to explain the results
• Exploratory sequential design: Collecting qualitative data first to develop instruments or hypotheses for later quantitative testing

Key features of mixed methods research

• Intentional integration of qualitative and quantitative components
• Combination of numerical patterns with experiential-depth insights
• Methodological flexibility across data types
• Ability to study complex phenomena from multiple angles
• Interpretation that values both numerical outcomes and contextual meaning

Benefits of mixed methods studies

• Balances out the limitations of qualitative and quantitative designs
• Provides stronger overall evidence by using complementary data sources
• Increases confidence in findings through triangulation
• Produces a more complete understanding of the research question

Limitations of mixed methods studies

• More complex methods requiring careful planning and methodological expertise
• Time and resource intensive because multiple data collection processes are involved
• Requires skill in both qualitative and quantitative analysis
• Can be challenging to integrate findings coherently

When should you use a mixed methods study design?

Use a mixed methods design when you want to:

• Combine numerical measurement with rich experiential insights
• Understand both the size of an effect and the reasons behind it
• Explore complex or multifaceted research questions
• Explain unexpected quantitative results
• Develop tools, frameworks or hypotheses grounded in real-world experiences