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Mixed Methods in Health Sciences Research
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Mixed Methods in Health Sciences Research
A Practical Primer



December 2014 | 432 pages | SAGE Publications, Inc

This must-have mixed methods resource for any health science researcher presents key theories, concepts, and approaches in an accessible way. Packed with illustrations from the health sciences literature, this ready-to-use guidebook shows readers how to design, conduct, review, and use mixed methods research findings. Helpful checklists, figures, tables, templates, and much more give readers examples that will elevate the quality of their research, facilitate communication about their methods, and improve efficiency over the course of their projects. Real-world examples and insights from mixed methods researchers provide unique perspectives on every aspect of mixed methods research. This book successfully pulls together foundational mixed methods principles, synthesizes the knowledge base in the field, and translates it for a health science researcher audience.


Explore six modules covering essential topics in qualitative methods with author Leslie Curry here.

 
Part I: Mixed Methods 101
 
Chapter 1: Definition and Overview of Mixed Methods Designs
Definition and Characteristics of Mixed Methods Research

 
Key Factors in Mixed Methods Research Designs

 
Primary Mixed Methods Study Designs

 
Examples From Peer-Reviewed Published Literature

 
 
Chapter 2: Applications and Illustrations of Mixed Methods Health Sciences Research
Relevance of Mixed Methods Research in the Health Sciences

 
Illustrations From Mixed Methods Studies in the Health Sciences

 
 
Chapter 3: Determining the Appropriateness and Feasibility of Using Mixed Methods
Defining the Nature of the Research Question

 
Developing the Rationale and Aims for a Mixed Methods Study

 
Key Considerations at the Planning Stage of a Project to Determine Feasibility

 
 
Part II: Getting Mixed Methods Research Funded
 
Chapter 4: Writing a Scientifically Sound and Compelling Grant Proposal for a Mixed Methods Study
Before You Write

 
Trends in Funding for Mixed Methods Studies

 
Writing a Mixed Methods Proposal

 
 
Chapter 5: Examples of Funded Grant Applications Using Mixed Methods
Real-World Examples of National Institutes of Health Grant Applications

 
Tips From the Field

 
 
Chapter 6: Assessing Quality in Mixed Methods Studies
The Importance of Research Quality for Different Audiences

 
Common Standards of Quality in Qualitative and Quantitative Research

 
Additional Standards for Quality in Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Studies

 
Examples of Threats to Quality in the Design and Conduct of Mixed Methods Studies

 
 
Part III: Designing and Implementing a Mixed Methods Study
 
Chapter 7: Sampling and Data Collection in Mixed Methods Studies
Principles of Sound Sampling

 
Principles of Sampling in Mixed Methods Studies

 
Practices of Sampling in Mixed Methods Studies

 
Approaches to Data Collection in Mixed Methods Studies

 
 
Chapter 8: Data Analysis and Integration in Mixed Methods Studies
Importance of Integration of Mixed Methods Data

 
Developing a Data Analysis Plan

 
Approaches to Integration in Data Collection and Analysis

 
Implementing Data Integration

 
Integration in Interpreting and Presenting Findings

 
 
Chapter 9: Managing Mixed Methods Teams
Why Think About Mixed Methods Teams?

 
Mixed Methods Teams as Representational Groups

 
Considerations and Guiding Principles for Managing Teams

 
Single Investigator Research

 
 
Chapter 10: Implementation Issues in Mixed Methods Research
Working With Human Research Protection Programs

 
Recommendations for Preparing a Strong Mixed Methods Application for Human Research Protection Program Review

 
Key Issues for Specific Mixed Methods Design Types

 
Implementation Challenges and Strategies From the Field

 
 
Part IV: Disseminating Findings
 
Chapter 11: Publishing Mixed Methods Studies in the Health Sciences
Challenges and Opportunities in Publishing Mixed Methods Research in the Health Sciences

 
Developing a Publication Strategy and Plan

 
Responding to Peer Reviews for Mixed Methods Studies

 
Example of Letter for Revision and Resubmission

 

“The content is highly applicable to real life research teams in the areas of clinical research, health services research, and implementation science, providing sound content and practical advice. The authors have synthesized and pull key concepts from a variety of sources to provide a concise resource.”

Linda M. Herrick, South Dakota State University

“Everything from the references, to the topics, checklists, conceptual graphic representations, and organizers, interviews, and resources, all contribute to the content and aid with understanding and/or application. ...It addresses specific MM research as it pertains to health sciences in a way that other texts just do not even attempt.”

Denise L. Winsor, University of Memphis

“[This text is] a very pragmatic approach to mixed methods research; excellent resources, tables, and figures [are] provided, along with cases and examples of value to researchers and grant reviewers. Its relevance to practice, education, and research, as well as to potential policy implications, is a strong focus that would make this a valued textbook for any researcher!”

Karen Devereaux Melillo, University of Massachusetts Lowell

“The text is cutting edge. It leads the way with its focus on team dynamics. [The authors] succeed in making the book relevant and practical. They also articulate a number of key insights in the area of mixed methods that rarely get addressed, such as teams and conflict. Great read with a lot of good, practical information for mixed methods researchers at all levels. The practical approach of this text makes it an innovative and valuable resource.”

John G. Schumacher, University of Maryland

Given the increased use of mixed methods in the health sciences, this text is timely and unique in that it offers a discipline-specific focus that is both relevant and practical... an excellent and valuable resource for all health researchers using mixed methods, regardless of experience.  

David Nelson, Macmillan research fellow, University of Lincoln
SRA Research Matters

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter 1

Chapter 6


For instructors

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With SAGE Research Methods, researchers can explore their chosen method across the depth and breadth of content, expanding or refining their search as needed; read online, print, or email full-text content; utilize suggested related methods and links to related authors from SAGE Research Methods' robust library and unique features; and even share their own collections of content through Methods Lists. SAGE Research Methods contains content from over 720 books, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks, the entire “Little Green Book,” and "Little Blue Book” series, two Major Works collating a selection of journal articles, and specially commissioned videos.