What are the types of mixed methods research designs?
The four main types of mixed methods research designs differ in when the quantitative and qualitative data are collected and analyzed:
- Convergent parallel design: Qualitative and quantitative data are collected and analyzed simultaneously and analyzed separately. The results are then compared, and similarities and dissimilarities between the findings are discussed.
- Embedded design: Either qualitative methods or quantitative methods are the focus of a study, and additional methods are used to support these main findings.
- Explanatory sequential design: Quantitative data are first collected and analyzed, then the results or patterns are explained using qualitative methods.
- Exploratory sequential design: Qualitative data are first collected and analyzed, then emergent themes are explored in more detail using quantitative methods.