Mixed Methods Research Questions Medium
Convergent, explanatory sequential, and exploratory sequential are three different types of mixed methods research designs that combine qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques. Each design has its own unique characteristics and purposes.
1. Convergent mixed methods research design:
In a convergent design, qualitative and quantitative data are collected simultaneously and analyzed separately. The key feature of this design is the equal importance given to both qualitative and quantitative data, with the aim of merging the findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research topic. The data are collected independently and then compared or integrated during the interpretation phase. This design is suitable when researchers want to explore a research question from multiple perspectives and validate findings across different data sources.
2. Explanatory sequential mixed methods research design:
In an explanatory sequential design, the research begins with the collection and analysis of quantitative data, followed by the collection and analysis of qualitative data. The purpose of this design is to use qualitative data to explain or provide deeper insights into the quantitative findings. The initial quantitative phase helps identify patterns or trends, which are then explored further through qualitative data collection. This design is useful when researchers want to understand the reasons behind quantitative results or to explore unexpected findings.
3. Exploratory sequential mixed methods research design:
In an exploratory sequential design, the research starts with the collection and analysis of qualitative data, followed by the collection and analysis of quantitative data. The qualitative phase helps generate hypotheses or theories, which are then tested using quantitative data. This design is suitable when researchers want to explore a new or complex research area where limited prior knowledge exists. The qualitative phase helps in developing a deeper understanding of the research topic, which is then quantitatively examined to generalize the findings to a larger population.
In summary, the key differences between convergent, explanatory sequential, and exploratory sequential mixed methods research designs lie in the order of data collection and analysis, as well as the purpose of each design. Convergent design merges qualitative and quantitative data, explanatory sequential design explains quantitative findings using qualitative data, and exploratory sequential design explores a research area using qualitative data before testing hypotheses with quantitative data.