Characteristics of the Mixed Method Research

The primary feature/characteristic of mixed methods research is that there is both a qualitative and quantitative component, e.g., at least one research question of each type that requires both a qualitative and quantitative design for data collection and analysis. A further distinction of mixed methods that is often overlooked with that the qualitative and quantitative portions of the study must be linked together, such that one could not be conducted without the other; otherwise, it is simply two studies - one qualitative and the other quantitative.

For instance, quantitative research might be conducted to examine possible correlations between predictor/independent variable(s) and outcome/dependent variable(s). Based on the correlational analysis completed, the researcher may want to follow up to qualitatively explore why the correlation(s) exist, as perceived or experienced by the participants. Or conversely, qualitatively identify possible causal factors for a phenomenon, then quantitatively test those to assess possible correlations.

As a caution, students are often asked to use qualitative or quantitative only, which are sufficient to demonstrate the ability to conduct doctoral research and to avoid mixed-methods due to the complexity and effort involved, which most beginning researchers are not prepared for. Regardless, where needed, mixed methods research is a viable and accepted research method.