Mixed Methods Research Questions
The key differences between mixed methods research and experimental research are as follows:
1. Approach: Mixed methods research combines both qualitative and quantitative methods, whereas experimental research primarily focuses on quantitative methods.
2. Purpose: Mixed methods research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of a research problem by integrating both qualitative and quantitative data, while experimental research focuses on establishing cause-and-effect relationships through controlled experiments.
3. Data collection: Mixed methods research involves collecting data through various techniques such as interviews, surveys, observations, and document analysis, whereas experimental research primarily relies on controlled experiments with specific variables and conditions.
4. Data analysis: Mixed methods research employs both qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques, including thematic analysis, content analysis, and statistical analysis, whereas experimental research primarily utilizes statistical analysis to analyze quantitative data.
5. Flexibility: Mixed methods research allows for flexibility in adapting the research design and methods based on the evolving research questions and context, while experimental research follows a predetermined and standardized research design.
6. Generalizability: Mixed methods research often focuses on in-depth understanding of a specific context or case, limiting generalizability, whereas experimental research aims for generalizability by using random sampling and controlling variables.
7. Research questions: Mixed methods research often explores complex research questions that require a holistic understanding, while experimental research typically focuses on specific research questions that can be tested through controlled experiments.
Overall, mixed methods research provides a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of a research problem by combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, while experimental research focuses on establishing causal relationships through controlled experiments.