"Mixed Methods" Approach

Dear New Investigators,

During the last ISOQoL conference we learned about applications of “mixed methods” approach in HRQoL research and I heard that it was of interest to new investigators. So, Antonia and I thought it might be good to open a discussion about it on our blog. We are not experts, but we reviewed some sources and want to share some introductory information (text taken from references listed in the end).

You are more than welcome to post comments, questions or share your experiences!

Best,

Katerina

What is “mixed methods research”?

·         Mixed methods research involves both collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data and mixing data. It is not enough to simply collect and analyze quantitative and qualitative data; they need to be “mixed” in some way, so that together they form a more complete picture of the problem than they do when standing alone.

·         This approach addresses restrictions associated with quantitative data (e.g. excluding voices of participants) and qualitative data (e.g. personal interpretations).

·         Critical issues in this approach are the extensive time and resources  and sampling issues (across databases)

·         There are different ways data can be combined.

Merging data. This integration consists of combining the qualitative data in the form of texts or images with the quantitative data in the form of numeric information. This integration can be achieved by reporting results together in a discussion section of a study, such as reporting first the quantitative statistical results followed by qualitative quotes or themes that support or refute the quantitative results. It also can be achieved by transforming one data set (e.g., counting the occurrence of themes in a qualitative data set) so that the transformed qualitative results can be compared with the quantitative data set. This integration also can occur through the use of tables or figures that display both the quantitative and the qualitative results (i.e., data displays).

Connecting data. This integration involves analyzing one data set (e.g., a quantitative survey), and then using the information to inform the subsequent data collection (e.g., interview questions, identification of participants to interview). In this way the integration occurs by connecting the analysis of results of the initial phase with the data collection of the second phase of research.

Embedding data. In this form of integration, a data set of secondary priority is embedded within a larger, primary design. An example is the collection of supplemental qualitative data about how participants are experiencing an intervention during an experimental trial. Alternatively, a qualitative data collection may precede an experimental trial to inform development of procedures or follow an experimental trial to help explain the results of the trial.

Application in Quality of Life Research

Applies to instrument development, theoretical model development, utilities, methodological validation, clinical use of quality-of-life measures, and understanding treatment outcomes.

The use of mixed methods is most suitable when a quantitative or qualitative approach, by itself, is inadequate to develop multiple perspectives and a complete understanding about a research problem or question. As part of instrument development, these qualitative methods are used to identify important and relevant concepts for measurement and for generating item content to cover these concepts. In contrast, quantitative research often focuses on sampling from a population and making inferences about the population based on the information about the sample. For example, research might seek to increase an understanding of patient responses that result in barriers to using specific treatments or differences in attitudes about research.

Further reading

Book

Creswell JW, Plano Clark VL (2010) Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research.  Sage Publications

Articles

Schwartz CE, Revicki DA (2012) Mixing methods and blending paradigms: some considerations for future research Qual Life Res (2012) 21:375–376)                              

Klassen AC;  Creswell J; Plano Clark VL; Clegg Smith K; Meissner HI (2012) Best practices in mixed methods for quality of life research. Qual Life Res, 21, 377-380

Example of recent HRQoL study using mixed methods approach

Harley C,  Takeuchi E, Taylor C, Keding A, Absolom K, Brown J, Velikova G (2012) A mixed methods approach to adapting health-related quality of life measures for use in routine oncology clinical practice Quality of Life Research, 21:389–403

And, if you are considering using this approach, take into account that using some kind of software, such as QDA Miner, that can really help you!

Resources 
text taken from: 

Creswell JW, Plano Clark VL (2010) Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research.  Sage Publications

Schwartz CE, Revicki DA (2012) Mixing methods and blending paradigms: some considerations for future research Qual Life Res (2012) 21:375–376)                 

Klassen AC;  Creswell J; Plano Clark VL; Clegg Smith K; Meissner HI (2012) Best practices in mixed methods for quality of life research. Qual Life Res, 21, 377-380