Mixed Methods Research Questions
Mixed methods research and political communication research are two distinct approaches within the field of political science.
Mixed methods research refers to a research design that combines both qualitative and quantitative methods in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of a research question. It involves collecting and analyzing both numerical data (quantitative) and non-numerical data (qualitative) to provide a more complete picture of the phenomenon under study. The key differences between mixed methods research and political communication research lie in their focus and methodology.
Political communication research, on the other hand, specifically examines the communication processes and strategies used in political contexts. It investigates how political actors, such as politicians, parties, and media, communicate their messages to the public and how these messages are received and interpreted by different audiences. Political communication research often employs qualitative methods, such as content analysis, interviews, and focus groups, to analyze political speeches, media coverage, and public opinion.
In summary, while mixed methods research is a broader research approach that combines qualitative and quantitative methods to explore various aspects of a research question, political communication research is a specific subfield within political science that focuses on the communication processes in politics, using primarily qualitative methods.