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Using Mixed Methods
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Using Mixed Methods
Frameworks for an Integrated Methodology



January 2011 | 224 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
Using Mixed Methods argues for research from a holistic perspective, integrating different methods, different data and overall research strategies. It provides innovative and ground-breaking in their implications for undertaking social and educational research. The author offers ways of justifying undertaking integrated approaches and offers an underlying rationale for the practices of social and educational research.

The author aims to help readers understand how to approach research using an integrated methodology, based on a pragmatic philosophy underpinned by an empirical epistemology. It provides an opportunity to develop an understanding of how to use an integrated methodology that meets the needs of the post-graduate researcher who wants to challenge the traditional paradigmatic view of research.

The book explores:

  • The traditional epistemological positions associated with different research approaches
  • Framework for an integrated methodology
  • Main explanations and justification for carrying out research using the FraIM
  • Ethical approach to research

Written in an easily accessible style, this book is for postgraduate students in education and social science courses.


 
From Mixed Methods to an Integrated Methodology
 
The FraIM: Frameworks for an Integrated Methodology
 
Case Selection: Data Source Management
 
Case Selection: Integrated Sampling
 
Data Collection: An Overview
 
Observation
 
Asking Questions
 
Analyzing Artefacts I
 
Analyzing Artefacts II
 
Data Integration
 
Warrantable Research: Using the FraIM as a Guide
 
Ethical Issues in Participant-Centred Research
 
Wider Ethical Issues and the FraIM
 
Holistic Integrationism: Philosophizing Research
 
A Few Final Words

This is not just yet another book for the bookshelf labeled Research Methods. It proposes a fundamentally different way of thinking about, and doing, social and educational research. In this approach the research methodology determines the philosophy rather than the reverse. This basic shift from the usual perspective encourages not only a pragmatic approach to research but is surprisingly liberating. Much of the usual nomenclature of research is wiped clean away so that the student is freed from the notion of having to learn a new dictionary of research terminology before embarking on the voyage of discovery. This not only positively sanctions 'mixed methods' approaches, but implies that the traditional barriers between research methodologies have often been misguided. The framework offered in this book will be well worth considering by any student embarking on research in these fields. The overall structure of the book, the chapter summaries and the linking chapter conclusions offer in themselves a model of clear expression. Read this book before you read any of the other texts on research methods and you may never clutter up your mind in the first place!
Professor David Hellawell Birmingham City University


This is an unusual and stimulating introductory research methods text which will be of real interest to anyone setting out on a small scale research study. It is not the first to reject the well-known qualitative/quantative dichotomy, but it is probably the first to reject the terms themselves and the conceptual baggage they bring with them, preferring instead to concentrate on the frameworks used to organise the way research is thought about. The introduction of Frameworks for an Integrated Methodology (FRaIM) is a novel and evidently productive way of understanding and synthesising the host of methodological literature that can so easily confuse the beginning researcher. The emphases throughout are on integration and methodology and on clarity of expression. Practical examples support and develop further the key elements of the book and each chapter is supported by relevant further reading. This book represents a key text for the individual social science researcher and for those involved with introducing the general area of research methods to beginning researchers
Professor Peter Gilroy
University of Plymouth


This is an intriguing book in many respects, perhaps the first true attempt I have come across to provide a practical framework for new researchers that want to work with mixed research methodology...I have already recommended students to take a look at it and see if it resonates with them and their work. Some have, with one or two deciding they will use it as a frame for their EdD theses....particularly for the new researcher, I imagine it could be a very useful tool in their research armoury
Dr Julie Anderson
ESCalate


Mixed method frameworks- adopted reading supporting student progress in this complex area of research- excellent for first time mixed method researchers

Mr Julian Ayres
School of Education and Community, Wrexham Glyndwr University
December 7, 2022

Provides an excellent tool for students preparing to conduct their research

Ms Therese Camilleri
Education, University of Malta
November 10, 2019

Very useful for dissertation students who are contemplating mixed measures. Have recommended this for use within CYP, Health and Education.

Miss Holly Joanna Magenta Scott
Education Department, Newcastle College
May 14, 2019

In my view this is a very well structured book that provides students, who are not familiar with mixed methods, with useful guidelines regarding the process of undertaking such research. I have already introduced it to those of my postgraduate students who are planning to do a study using mixed methods and will continue to do so next semester.

Dr Anna Olafsdottir
Dept of Education, University of Iceland
February 24, 2016

This very clear & structured approach to research methods will be a useful addition to early career researchers and students undertaking dissertations.

Mr Trevor Wynter
Faculty of Health and Lifesciences, Northumbria University
December 10, 2014

A thouroughly enjoyable book in advocating this mixed method style of research. The book is well organised and clearly written. Simply arranged which takes the reader to the relevant aspects of undertaking this approach to research which is becoming more and more prominent in dissertations.

Mrs Anita McGowan
Humanities , Croydon College
June 11, 2014

I thought this was an interesting text offering a different perspective on mixed methods. and how this approach can be used in priamry research

Mr Ian McGonagle
Faculty of Social Science, Lincoln University
May 29, 2014

A valuable addition to our reading lists.

Dr Simon Gibbs
Educational Psychology, Newcastle upon Tyne University
May 26, 2014

This is a current and readable text which will help anyone undertaking educational research.

I have no hesitation in recommending it to learners, and I will be using it myself when I undertake my Doctorate.

The chapters are logical and the topics explained well, with examples and case studies. The ‘summaries’ help put theory into practice.

There is a very comprehensive reference list, subject index and name index. The latter being really useful to quickly locate sources of reference.

Ms Ann Gravells
Teacher Training, Ann Gravells Ltd
April 17, 2014

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter 2


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