Research Methods and Applications for Student Affairs

Chapter FourteenExploring Mixed Methods

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:

• Understand the purpose and role of mixed methods in research.
• Differentiate between the major mixed methods designs.
• Know answers to basic questions about mixed methods in research.
• Relate mixed methods research to student affairs practice.

Many research problems can be studied with a single method. Qualitative research offers the opportunity to explore, while quantitative research offers the opportunity to explain. Each has the capability to contribute to knowledge and improve practice, although the process, outcomes, and findings can vary considerably. A third type of research, mixed methods, offers the opportunity to benefit ...