“Fractal Heuristics” for Mixed Methods Research: Applying Abbott’s “Fractal Distinctions” as a Conceptual Metaphor for Method Integration

Abstract

With the interest in advancing integration in the field of mixed methods research (MMR), researchers need powerful metaphors for conceiving and implementing mixing strategies. This article contributes to the field of MMR by showing how Abbott’s “fractal distinctions” provide a valuable heuristic for the application of method combinations as well as the methodological reflection of MMR. Based on its core notion, the “self-similarity” of methods approaches, I propose three heuristic guidelines: (a) deliberately seek out qualitative aspects in quantitative methods (and vice versa); (b) assume a nonessentialist, theory-oriented approach toward method integration; and (c) aim to reconcile rigor and innovation in empirical research. I discuss similarities between fractal heuristics and other conceptualizations of difference-within, including dialectical and feminist approaches to MMR.

Reflexive Integration of Research Elements (RIRE)

“…RIRE continues the tradition of scholars who have identified reflexivity as a tool or strategy, but also called for the clarification of its process (Dean, 2017;Guillemin & Gillam, 2004;Pillow, 2003;Swaminathan & Mulvihill, 2019). RIRE also builds from the work of qualitative, quantitative, and MMR scholars alike: Subramani (2019), Ryan and Golden (2006), Hall and Howard (2008), Morse (2015), Sanscartier (2018), and Knappertsbusch (2020. Across these studies, reflexive moments, communicating with and translating research approaches, deliberation, and awareness were instrumental in a few ways.…”

Virtual Special Issue on “Integration in Mixed Methods Research”

“…Knappertsbusch (2020) further extended thinking about integration by using Abbott’s fractal distinctions as a heuristic. A fractal is a microcosm.…”

“…They developed a continuum of integration and encouraged researchers to use the desired outcome as a marker of what ''needs to be integrated to achieve effective integration'' (p. 337). Knappertsbusch (2020) further extended thinking about integration by using Abbott's fractal distinctions as a heuristic. A fractal is a microcosm.…”

Hope, Loneliness and Sense of Coherence among Bereaved Parents

“…Each one of the social workers was able to interview a single parent. However, in line with several methodological approaches [39,40], an inconsistency was proposed regarding the sample size in the qualitative part of this mixed design study.…”