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Mixed Methods Research Design

Mixed Methods Research integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches within a single study to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a research problem. It leverages the strengths of both methods—qualitative for depth and context, and quantitative for measurement and generalizability.

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Journal Article

Designing a mixed methods study in primary care

Creswell, J. W., Fetters, M. D., & Ivankova, N. V. (2004). Designing a mixed methods study in primary care. The Annals of Family Medicine, 2(1), 7-12.

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Journal Article

Mixed methods studies: A foundation for primary care research

Borkan, J. M. (2004). Mixed methods studies: a foundation for primary care research. The Annals of Family Medicine, 2(1), 4-6.

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Journal Article

Combining qualitative and quantitative sampling, data collection, and analysis techniques in mixed‐method studies

Sandelowski, M. (2000). Combining qualitative and quantitative sampling, data collection, and analysis techniques in mixed‐method studies. Research in nursing & health, 23(3), 246-255.

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Types of mixed methods designs

Convergent design

Quantitative and qualitative data are collected simultaneously and merged for interpretation.

Explanatory sequential design

Quantitative data is collected first, followed by qualitative data to explain or expand the findings.

Exploratory sequential design

Qualitative data is collected first to explore a phenomenon, followed by quantitative data to test findings.

Embedded design

One method is nested within the other to address a specific sub-question.

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Design & Methods

Intro To Mixed Methods Research

November 18, 2025. Presenters: Jennifer Salerno, Research Associate and Jessica Gaber, Research Coordinator

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