Mixed Methods Research

The term mixed methods research is generally used to refer to research that combines quantitative and qualitative research approaches and methods in the same study. Some researchers include studies that combine different quantitative methods, or different qualitative methods, but the term multimethod research is more commonly used for these. Many prominent mixed methods researchers add that such studies should involve an actual integration of the results of the two methods, rather than simply being separate strands of a study with no real interaction. This entry explains the differences between qualitative and quantitative research and describes the history of mixed methods research, key issues in its development, important concepts and strategies in its use, and current controversies in the field.