Question 1

Mixed methods approach combines qualitative methods that help understand ___ and quantitative methods that help reveal ___.

Accepted Answer

The mixed methods approach typically combines qualitative methods, which are useful for understanding unique experiences and perspectives, with quantitative methods, which allow researchers to uncover general patterns and trends in large datasets. Therefore, choice B is the best answer as it accurately reflects the complementary nature of these two types of methods in the mixed methods approach.

Question 2

The following statements about mixed methods designs are correct, EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Not all studies using both qualitative and quantitative data are considered mixed methods research. Mixed methods research requires a deliberate and planned integration of both methods to address research questions or hypotheses.

Question 3

There are several typical mixed methods designs mentioned in the text. Which one of the following is NOT among them?

Accepted Answer

The other three options (convergent study design, sequential explanatory design, and sequential exploratory design) are all typical mixed methods designs mentioned in the text. Divergent study design is not a typical mixed methods design.

Question 4

Which one of the following research questions is best suited for a mixed methods study?

Accepted Answer

A mixed methods study involves both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Option D involves both qualitative (unique challenges of homosexual personnel in the military) and quantitative (trends in enlistment among homosexual servicemembers) aspects that can be answered using a mixed methods approach. The other options are better suited to either quantitative or qualitative research alone.

Question 5

Among the following research questions, which one is the most fitting for a mixed methods study?

Accepted Answer

This research question requires both qualitative (to understand subjective experiences) and quantitative (to measure likelihood of dropping out) data, making it a good fit for a mixed methods study. A and D only require quantitative data, and B only requires qualitative data.

Question 6

To evaluate a ___ study, both the quantitative and the qualitative components need to be evaluated separately, before they are evaluated ___.

Accepted Answer

When evaluating a mixed methods study, it is important to evaluate both the quantitative and qualitative components separately before considering them together. This allows for a thorough evaluation of each component's quality and validity before assessing how they complement or contradict each other. Evaluating them together without separate consideration could result in overlooking potential weaknesses or biases in one or both components.

Question 7

When evaluating the qualitative results presented in a mixed methods study, it is important to pay attention to several key issues listed below. Which one of the following is NOT a key issue in the analysis of qualitative data?

Accepted Answer

Statistical analysis is not a key issue in the analysis of qualitative data. Qualitative research focuses on understanding and exploring experiences, perspectives, and meanings, rather than numerical data that can be statistically analyzed. Key issues in the analysis of qualitative data include expert and participant feedback, disclosure of the researcher's background, and inclusion of quotations and descriptions.

Question 8

There are several important standards by which the presentation of quantitative results in a mixed methods study is judged. Which one of the following is NOT among these standards?

Accepted Answer

Evaluation of preliminary results by an auditor is not among the important standards by which the presentation of quantitative results in a mixed methods study is judged. However, supplementing tables with a discussion in the narrative, providing descriptive statistics to inform inferential analyses, and overall cohesion in the presentation of quantitative results are important standards in mixed methods studies.

Question 9

Besides the quality of analyses for both the quantitative and the qualitative components in a mixed methods study, ___.

Accepted Answer

Integration of the quantitative and qualitative components is a crucial aspect of a mixed methods study. It is not enough to have good analysis for each component separately, but the results must be integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research question.

Question 10

There are certain validity issues that are unique to mixed methods research designs. Which one of the following issues is NOT unique to mixed methods?

Accepted Answer

The issue of acknowledging limitations of the study is not unique to mixed methods research designs. It is a general concern for all types of research designs. The other three issues are unique to mixed methods research designs.

Question 11

If the comparison between qualitative and quantitative data in a mixed methods study uncovers some surprising information or aberrant cases, what is the best strategy for the researchers to follow?

Accepted Answer

Including the contradictory details and discussing them in the research report is the best strategy because it acknowledges and addresses the unexpected findings, which can provide new insights or lead to further investigation. Excluding the aberrant cases or leaving them for another study may result in distorted or incomplete interpretations. Subjecting the aberrant cases to a separate statistical analysis may be appropriate in some cases, but the results should still be integrated with the other findings and discussed in the report.

Question 12

Mixed methods studies should be conducted because of the ___, not because of the ___.

Accepted Answer

Mixed methods studies should be conducted because they are the best fit for the research questions being asked, not because data is easily available. While a researcher's expertise may play a role in the decision to conduct a mixed methods study, the primary consideration should always be the alignment between methodology and research question. Burning curiosity and parallel designs are not the primary drivers of mixed methods research.

Quiz 12: Evaluating Analysis and Results Sections: Mixed Methods Research

Mixed methods approach combines qualitative methods that help understand _ and quantitative methods that help reveal _.