How do you address the potential conflicts and tensions between qualitative and quantitative paradigms?

3 Paradigm integration

Despite potential conflicts between qualitative and quantitative methods, some researchers suggest that the two can be integrated in a coherent and rigorous way. This approach is referred to as mixed methods research, which involves the collection, analysis, and integration of both qualitative and quantitative data in a single study or a series of studies. Mixed methods research can be beneficial in a number of ways; for instance, it can enhance the validity and reliability of findings through triangulation of different sources and methods of data. Additionally, it provides a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of the research problem by addressing its multiple dimensions and perspectives. Moreover, mixed methods research can address the limitations and gaps of one method by using another method to supplement or extend the results. Finally, it can generate new insights and questions by exploring the convergence and divergence of the data.

4 Mixed methods design

When conducting mixed methods research, you need to consider several aspects of the research design. This includes clearly stating why you're using both qualitative and quantitative methods, and how they will address your research questions and objectives. Additionally, you need to decide how you will combine and relate the qualitative and quantitative data, as well as which method will have more weight or emphasis in your study. Furthermore, appropriate and compatible methods of sampling and data collection should be selected for both qualitative and quantitative data, while suitable and consistent methods of data analysis and interpretation should be chosen for both data types. Integrating these in a meaningful and transparent way is essential.

5 Mixed methods challenges

Mixed methods research can offer many advantages, but it is also important to be aware of the potential challenges. It requires more time, resources, and expertise than single-method research and demands careful planning and coordination. Additionally, there may be difficulty in reconciling the different paradigms, assumptions, and standards of qualitative and quantitative methods. Furthermore, presenting and reporting the findings in a clear, concise, and coherent way may be difficult and there may be limited options for publishing or sharing the results. Nevertheless, by addressing the potential conflicts between qualitative and quantitative research paradigms and by adopting a mixed methods approach that respects both forms of inquiry, you can improve your research quality and impact.