What are the key components of a mixed methods research proposal?

The key components of a mixed methods research proposal include:

1. Introduction: This section provides an overview of the research problem, research questions, and the rationale for using a mixed methods approach.

2. Research Design: This section outlines the overall design of the study, including the specific mixed methods design (e.g., convergent, explanatory sequential, embedded) and the integration of qualitative and quantitative data.

3. Sampling: This component describes the target population, the sampling strategy for both qualitative and quantitative data collection, and the rationale for selecting participants.

4. Data Collection: This section details the methods and instruments used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data, including interviews, surveys, observations, or document analysis.

5. Data Analysis: This component explains the procedures for analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data, including the specific techniques or software used for each type of data.

6. Integration: This section describes how the qualitative and quantitative data will be integrated, such as through data transformation, comparison, or merging, to address the research questions.

7. Ethical Considerations: This component discusses the ethical considerations related to the research, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and potential risks to participants.

8. Limitations: This section acknowledges the potential limitations of the study, such as sample size, generalizability, or biases, and discusses how these limitations will be addressed.

9. Timeline: This component provides a timeline for the different stages of the research, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.

10. Budget: This section outlines the estimated costs associated with the research, including participant compensation, data collection materials, and software licenses.

11. References: This component includes a list of the relevant literature and sources cited throughout the proposal.

Overall, a mixed methods research proposal should demonstrate a clear understanding of the research problem, a well-designed and feasible approach to data collection and analysis, and a thoughtful integration of qualitative and quantitative data to address the research questions.