Proposing a Methodological Borderland: Combining Chicana Feminist Theory With Transformative Mixed Methods Research

Abstract

In this article, we propose a “methodological borderland,” defined as a methodological space in constant transition; one that allows researchers to combine multiple methods, data points, and theories, guided by a desire for social justice for studied populations. In doing so, we urge mixed methods researchers to access theoretical frameworks that are grounded in the ways of knowing of participants and that promote critical analysis and interpretation in conjunction with transformative mixed methods. Using a convergent mixed methods approach, we illustrate the way Chicana feminist theory can be used as a theoretical lens and analytic tool that can amplify the voices of Raza college students. We suggest and illustrate ways to use theory to enhance transformative mixed methods.

A Comprehensive Taxonomy of Research Designs, a Scaffolded Design Figure for Depicting Essential Dimensions, and Recommendations for Achieving Design Naming Conventions in the Field of Mixed Methods Research

“…Hence, the shorthand would follow the Guetterman and Fetters (2018) ordering. In the Garcia and Ramirez (2021) study, the loose equivalent to a "genus-species" naming convention" might be a convergent transformative mixed methods research design. I cannot speak for the authors, and using such a naming convention would require them to list their methodology relative to the primary and secondary emphasis.…”

“…An application of the mixed methods design taxonomy in Table 2 was created based on Garcia and Ramirez (2021). They used Chicana feminist theory as a theoretical lens and analytic tool to amplify the voices of Raza college students in their mixed methods study.…”

“…A scaffolded design figure can also be used to illustrate the design dimensions in multidimensional mixed methods research designs. Figure 2 provides an illustration of a scaffolded design figure for the Garcia and Ramirez (2021) study. Note that the number of scaffolds can vary depending on the foundational design dimensions incorporated by the research team.…”

“…The scaffolded design figure clearly indicates that all the dimensions are interdependent and essential for the overall study. The wide range of successful organisms in nature that have less complicated structures is a reminder more complicated is not necessarily better for a specific niche.

Figure 2.Multidimensional scaffolded mixed methods research design figure based on the mixed methods design taxonomy using the example of Garcia and Ramirez (2021).

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In This Issue: Integrative Strategies, Philosophical Assumptions, Hierarchical Linear Modeling, Transformative Research for Social Justice, and Longitudinal Studies in Mixed Methods Research

“…In the second transformative mixed methods research article, Garcia and Ramirez (2021) with affiliations in education also utilized a transformative lens and have proposed the concept of the ''methodological borderland'' as a methodological space in constant transition that allows researchers to combine multiple methods, data points, and theories, and is guided by a desire for transformation and social justice for studied populations. The authors used Chicana Feminist theory and stressed the need to question notions of objectivity and universal knowledge foundations when conducting research with minoritized populations.…”