From Mixing methods to the logic(s) of inquiry: taking a fresh look at developing mixed design studies

Rachel L. Shaw, David R. Hiles, Karen West, Carol Holland, Holly Gwyther

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objective: This invited paper offers an innovative framework for mixed methods research design.

Method: We propose the adoption of the Model of Disciplined Inquiry, a five-component model that focuses on the research question(s) rather than the type(s) of data collected. This pluralist model firmly anchors the research design and paradigm assumptions in the research question(s). Decisions about an appropriate research strategy are made in line with those assumptions. We propose three logics of inquiry to help articulate the processes involved in making sense of findings and their relationship to theory.

Results: The Model of Disciplined Inquiry is demonstrated by applying it to the framework to a longitudinal study and describe our decision-making processes at each component stage. The results support the arguement in favour of shifting the focus away from the types of data generated (i.e. qualitative or quantitative) and relatedly a move away from mixed methods research to mixed design research.

Conclusion: We conclude the paper with some challenges experienced in the example study and some challenges yet to be resolved.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)226-244
JournalHealth Psychology and Behavioral Medicine
Volume6
Issue number1
Early online date6 Sept 2018
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Bibliographical note

© 2018 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/
licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

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