This research is a process of learning to fill the knowledge gap independently. Qualitative and quantitative research in the social science field provides new insights. A researcher can acquire new information through the use of mixed-methods studies, which offer a fresh approach to acquiring information and knowledge. This method provides us with both specific and academic insights into the research field. The mixed-methods study supported decision-making.
Understanding the Research Process
The researchers require these fundamental steps to understand the research process. These steps are part of the research process. By acquiring knowledge in a systematic manner, researchers are enhancing its capacity. Research is not a process; rather, it is a means of pursuing the quest for knowledge. The steps are below.
Phases of the Researcher Approaches
Phases Of The Research Approaches | Years |
Quantitative approaches | 1900-1960 |
Qualitative approaches | 1960-1980 |
Mixed method approaches | 1980-2000 |
Table 1: Phases of the Researcher Approaches
Understanding the Quantitative Research
The research process begins with the use of variables, describing the relationship between or among them. The theory provides an explanation based on the observed trends. The role of hypotheses is limited to specific (deductive) approaches. This type of research gathers data using an instrument such as a survey. We conduct the analysis and subsequently prepare the report in a standard format.
While conducting the quantitative research, do I know?
The Use of the Deductive Reasoning Approach
In quantitative research, the existing theory plays a crucial role. Deductive reasoning is the process of developing hypotheses based on the existing theory and then constructing a research method to test these hypotheses. It is crucial to clarify the concepts, explain the correlation between the variables, and acknowledge the existence of a cause-and-effect relationship within the context. Researchers measure the ideas and concepts quantitatively. We apply the findings in a wider context.
Understanding the Qualitative Research
We collect non-numerical data to comprehend people’s attitudes, behaviors, and motivations in the context of social perspective research. This type of research takes place in a natural setting, allowing participants to interpret the concepts and provide their own meaning. This research focuses on ethnographic research, case study research, record-keeping, and the process of observation.
To Know About the Mixed Method Research
The term’ mixed methods’ has gained popularity as a general term that encompasses almost any scenario that combines multiple methodological approaches, typically incorporating elements from both qualitative and quantitative research methods. It covers multi-method research and triangulation, each of which has a somewhat more restricted meaning. Remember that MMR is not simply a collection of two or more independent studies; instead, it requires an integrative use of quantitative and qualitative methods in a single study. The strengths of one method may outweigh the weaknesses of another, particularly in terms of validity, adding confidence to results, and producing a more complete, integrated picture. The integrative nature allows research questions to be considered beyond a single quantitative or qualitative approach; for example, a single study can consider exploratory and confirmatory research questions.
Why did I choose the Mixed Method Research approach?
Various factors determine the choice to employ a multi-model regression (MMR) approach. These considerations are based on the researchers’ philosophy and theoretical development approaches. Engaging in a research project with a philosophical inclination towards pragmatism often aligns with MMR, as a pragmatic researcher does not focus on a single approach. The researcher seeks the method that provides the most relevant and reliable data. The dialectical paradigm aims to incorporate diverse perspectives and interpretations of the social world, emphasizing the importance of multiple viewpoints. To effectively comprehend and analyze these various perspectives, we choose MMR. A critical realist may opt for a quantitative phase to analyze published data and a qualitative phase to investigate perceptions. Abductive reasoning can carry out the process of developing theories or models, initially selecting a qualitative approach to formulate propositions and subsequently conducting a quantitative study to test these propositions. It is important to note that there are many valid variations and phases in abductive development. Therefore, view this example sequence as an illustration rather than a set of instructions.
Double Method Not Single Method
Considering all factors leads to a multitude of reasons for adopting MMR. Various authorities describe the reasons in different ways, with some asserting up to ten, while others only state five. Fundamentally, we can categorize the underlying reasons into three groups: techniques that enhance outcomes by accumulating evidence, confirming findings, or analyzing different aspects of the phenomenon, all while minimizing the influence of bias from a single method. MMR phases aim to improve upon previous phases’ findings by providing further elaboration, illustration, or even contradiction of the results obtained in earlier phases. In addition, the researcher may want to establish a connection between the two studies in order to investigate the phenomena in a unified manner. This involves examining the phenomena in the initial study and then verifying or broadening the findings through a subsequent study. For instance, one phase may identify potential categories or items for a survey in a subsequent phase.
Where We Can Use Mixed Method Research
Psychologists and social scientists utilize mixed-methods research in health studies. This is the method by which we collect both numeric and nonnumeric data. Through this method, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the research questions and know the strengths and weaknesses of the topic and phenomena. Having in-depth knowledge and understanding can challenge your thinking patterns and inspire you to seek out new information.
What Should I Know For the Mixed Methods Research?
These skills will support you in conducting mixed-methods research.
Support Factors In Mixed Method Study?
There are a number of skills that are important to learn for the research, as you can see from the mixture of both qualitative and quantitative research entertained in the MMR study. Therefore, these skills are essential for conducting research effectively.
This article about the mixed method study, which is important in the field of social science, means that in-depth knowledge and understanding can be possible if we follow the mixed method study. I hope you all enjoy it.
Regards,
Dr. Abid Hussain Nawaz
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