Strategies of Mixed Matrix

Assignment 5.2 1

Running head: ASSIGNMENT 5.2

Abstract

According to Creswell, mixed methods research is an approach to inquiry that

combines or associates both qualitative and quantitative forms of research. It

involves philosophical assumptions, the use of qualitative and quantitative

approaches, and the mixing of both approaches in a study. There are also four

factors which are timing, weight, mixing and theorizing that help shape the

procedures of a mixed methods study. Although these do not exhaust all the

possibilities, there are six major strategies for inquires to choose from in designing a research proposal. This author will design a matrix examining the

the concepts of all six (Creswell, 2009).

STRATEGIES OF MIXED METHODS MATRIX

Assignment 5.2 2

Sequential Explanatory Strategy Advantages of the Type Limitations of the Type

*Researcher has a collection and The main weakness of this design is the

analysis of quantitative data in a first phase length of time involved in data collections

of research followed by the collection and

analysis of qualitative data in a second

phase that builds on the results of the

initial quantitative results.

* Weight is typically given to the

quantitative data and the mixing of the

data occurs when the initial quantitative

results informs the secondary qualitative

data collection.

* It is easy to implement and it has a

straightforward nature.

Sequential Exploratory Strategy *Its two-phase approach makes it easy * It also involves a substantial length of

to implement and straightforward to design time to complete both data collection

and report. phases, which can be a drawback for

some research situations.

* It is useful to the researcher who wants to

explore a phenomenon but also wants to * Also the researcher has to make some

expand on the qualitative findings. key decisions about which findings from the

initial qualitative phase will be focused on in

* This model is especially advantageous the the subsequent quantitative phase.

when a researcher is building a new

instrument.

* It could make a largely qualitative study

more palatable to an advisor, committee,

or research community well versed in

quantitative research.

Sequential Transformative Strategy * It also has an initial phase followed by a * It also requires the time to complete two

second phase that builds on the earlier data collection phases

phase.

* There is little guidance on how to use

* The theoretical lens is introduced in the the transformative vision to guide the

introduction to a proposal, shapes a methods.

directional research question aimed at

exploring a problem.

* It has a theoretical perspective to guide

the study.

* It places mixed methods research

within a transformative framework.

Concurrent