Mixed Methods Research Questions
The key differences between mixed methods research and political economy of security research are as follows:
1. Approach: Mixed methods research combines qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of a research topic. It involves collecting and analyzing both numerical data and textual information. On the other hand, political economy of security research focuses specifically on the intersection of politics, economics, and security. It primarily employs qualitative methods to examine the political and economic factors influencing security issues.
2. Research Design: Mixed methods research typically follows a sequential or concurrent design, where qualitative and quantitative data are collected and analyzed separately or simultaneously. In contrast, political economy of security research often adopts a qualitative research design, utilizing methods such as interviews, case studies, and content analysis to explore the complex relationships between politics, economics, and security.
3. Focus: Mixed methods research aims to provide a holistic understanding of a research problem by integrating different types of data. It seeks to answer research questions that require both qualitative and quantitative insights. Political economy of security research, on the other hand, specifically investigates the political and economic dimensions of security issues, such as the impact of economic policies on national security or the role of political institutions in shaping security strategies.
4. Data Analysis: Mixed methods research involves analyzing qualitative data through techniques such as thematic analysis, content analysis, or grounded theory, while quantitative data is analyzed using statistical methods. In political economy of security research, qualitative data analysis techniques like coding, pattern recognition, and comparative analysis are commonly employed to examine the political and economic dynamics of security.
5. Purpose: Mixed methods research aims to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of a research topic by integrating different types of data and perspectives. It seeks to bridge the gap between qualitative and quantitative approaches. Political economy of security research, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the political and economic factors influencing security issues, aiming to inform policy-making and contribute to the field of security studies.
Overall, while mixed methods research is a broader approach that combines qualitative and quantitative methods, political economy of security research is a specific subfield within political science that examines the intersection of politics, economics, and security.