Table 2. Overview of mixed methods design features.
Mixed Methods Designa | Reviewed Studies | Rationale and Value | Timing | Priority Options | Mixing Strategies |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Concurrent (Quan + Qual) |
[39,40,44,47,48,51,52,55–57,59] | To generate generalizable results combined with in-depth explorations for cross-validation, confirmation, or completeness | Concurrent: quantitative and qualitative strands administered at same time | Equal, quantitative, or qualitative | Merging results during data analysis and/or interpretation |
Explanatory Sequential (Quan→Qual) |
[42,43,45,50,53,54] | To explain the mechanisms behind quantitative results with qualitative findings or build on quantitative trends with qualitative examination | Sequential: quantitative strand administered first and followed by qualitative strand | Quantitative or qualitative | Connecting from quantitative results to qualitative data collection and connecting results during interpretation |
Exploratory Sequential (Qual→Quan) |
[46,49,58] | To explore a phenomenon before measuring with quantitative methods to verify or build on qualitative findings with quantitative results | Sequential: qualitative strand administered first and followed by quantitative strand | Qualitative or quantitative | Connecting from qualitative findings to quantitative data collection and connecting results during interpretation |
Embedded QUAN(qual) |
[41] | To examine the intervention process within an experimental test of intervention outcomes | Concurrent | Quantitative | Embedding qualitative data within an experimental design |
Multiphase (Quan→qual) →[qual+quan] |
[38,60] | Multiple phases needed to thoroughly address study objective(s) | Combination of sequential and concurrent | Varies by strand | Combination of merging and connecting |