Mixed methods research synthesis: definition, framework, and potential

Abstract

Literature on the combination of qualitative and quantitative research components at the primary empirical study level has recently accumulated exponentially. However, this combination is only rarely discussed and applied at the research synthesis level. The purpose of this paper is to explore the possible contribution of mixed methods research to the integration of qualitative and quantitative research at the synthesis level. In order to contribute to the methodology and utilization of mixed methods at the synthesis level, we present a framework to perform mixed methods research syntheses (MMRS). The presented classification framework can help to inform researchers intending to carry out MMRS, and to provide ideas for conceptualizing and developing those syntheses. We illustrate the use of this framework by applying it to the planning of MMRS on effectiveness studies concerning interventions for challenging behavior in persons with intellectual disabilities, presenting two hypothetical examples. Finally, we discuss possible strengths of MMRS and note some remaining challenges concerning the implementation of these syntheses.

Research Approaches in Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Publications: A Systematic Literature Review

“…In practice, many researchers report difficulty in "bringing together the analysis and interpretation of the qualitative and quantitative data and [in] writing a narrative that links the analyses and interpretations together" (Bryman, 2007). An expanding number of publications are now advancing practical strategies or frameworks to facilitate better integration (Bazeley, 2012;Castro et al, 2010;Heyvaert, Maes & Onghena, 2011;O'Cathain, Murphy & Nicholl, 2010). Ivankova, Creswell, and Stick (2006) propose using a visual representation of the research process, illustrating where, when, how, and why data sets are connected and mixed, to aid clarification of integration.…”

Which standards from which disciplines? A test of systematic review for designing interdisciplinary evaluations

“…11 As for the heterogeneous literature, a priority area for development of synthesis methods is in the integration of evidence-based and argument-based knowledge, and within evidence-based knowledge, that based on quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research. While some work in theorising the value of different types of knowledge to a review framework appears promising (Heyvaert, Maes, and Onghena 2011;McCullough, Coverdale, and Chervenak 2007;Sandelowski et al 2012), our experience suggests that the challenges are formidable. Although our search specifically targeted articles with a conscious epistemological awareness, the heterogeneity of returned articles does not give us confidence that it will be easy to find an overarching framework within which each article can be neatly placed.…”

Exploring the use of agent-based modelling in mixed methods research

“…Teddlie and Tashakkori (2006) offer another typology that is widely referred to, offering four basic "families" of designs: "sequential, concurrent, conversion, and fully integrated" (Teddlie and Tashakkori 2006:25). Heyvaert et al (2013) proposes a typology for mixing methods at the synthesis level, and gives a classification framework with 18 possible designs. This is portrayed by using capital or lowercase letters (capital letters indicating a dominating status) and + or  to separate the designs (+ indicating a concurrent and  a sequential approach).…”