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Mixing Methods in Social Research
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Mixing Methods in Social Research
Qualitative, Quantitative and Combined Methods

  • Ralph Hall - University of New South Wales, Australia


March 2020 | 272 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

This book provides a straightforward, student-focused introduction to doing mixed methods research, covering everything from why and when mixed methods is appropriate, as well as how to use qualitative and quantitative methods in tandem.

Assuming no prior research methods knowledge, it introduces mixed methods alongside basic research theory and principles, fully integrating mixed methods into the research methods foundation. With clearly defined key terms and a structure that maps to the way students work on their projects, it progresses at a gradual pace suitable for mixed methods beginners.

Offering encouragement and tips for success throughout the full research process, Hall helps students confidently:

- Explain mixed methods paradigms and methodologies

- Define and choose a research approach  

- Combine methods effectively

- Sample, collect, and analyze primary and secondary data

- Communicate and write up results.

Packed with tables, figures, and boxes that distill key concepts into retainable visuals, this book is the perfect companion to support students on their mixed methods projects.  

 
Part I: The Principles of Mixed Methods Research
 
Chapter 1: The Nature of Social Research and the Emergence of Mixed Methods
 
Chapter 2: Defining Paradigms and their use in Mixed Methods Research
 
Part II: Planning Social Research
 
Chapter 3: Defining the Research Problem and Reviewing the Literature
 
Chapter 4: Conceptual and Theoretical Frameworks in Social Research
 
Chapter 5: Choosing the Research Design
 
Chapter 6: Combining Methods in Mixed Methods Designs
 
Part III: Conducting Social Research
 
Chapter 7: Sampling Methods - Choosing Research Participants
 
Chapter 8: Collecting Data Using Self-Completion Questionnaires
 
Chapter 9: Collecting Data Using Interviews
 
Chapter 10: Collecting Data Using Observational Methods
 
Chapter 11: Collecting Secondary Data
 
Part IV: Organizing and Analyzing Research Data
 
Chapter 12: Preparing Data for Analysis
 
Chapter 13: Analyzing Quantitative Data
 
Chapter 14: Analyzing Qualitative Data
 
Chapter 15: Mixed Methods Data Analysis
 
Part V: Reporting, Presenting and Implementing Research Findings
 
Chapter 16: Interpreting Research Findings
 
Chapter 17: Communicating Research Findings
 
Chapter 18: Turning Research Results into Practice

This textbook is helpful for those who are new to research methods, especially mixed methods research. It provides a quick and simple introduction to mixed methods and the different paradigms and methodologies. It is packed with tables, figures and boxes to visually aid understanding and prompt further reflection.

Miss Lee Lui
Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Kingston University
May 10, 2024

clear directions explaining mixed methods

Mrs Geraldine Anita Parks
Department of Education, St Mary's University College (Belfast)
June 7, 2021

More concise than say Creswell & Plano Clark or Tashakkori & Teddlie, therefore more accessible for students. Clear and succinct discussion of the theoretical and practical issues associated with mixed methods research, with examples of published research. Draws on Creswell and Plano Clark 2011, even though a new and significantly updated edition came out in 2017 - were other contemporary references missed as well?

Dr Hubert van Griensven
School of Health and Social Work, Hertfordshire University
October 20, 2020

Everything they need to know

Mr Paul Edward Matthews
Gloucestershire Business School, Gloucestershire University
April 9, 2021

very thought provoking and useful guide to mixing methods which emphasises that there may well be more than one approach to a research problem.

Mr Ian Andrew
Business School, Oxford Brookes University
July 12, 2020

An extremely useful text, providing clarity and guidance to students planning research proposals.

Miss Louise Stafford
Department of Education, Oxford Brookes University
January 25, 2021

This is a very good resource for students and teaching

Mrs Josephine D Morris
Interdiscipline, Winchester University
December 9, 2020