ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF MIXED RESEARCH METHOD 1

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ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF MIXED RESEARCH METHOD 2

Advantages and disadvantages of mixed research method

Quantitative research method places emphasize on investigation of phenomena by

utilizing objective statistical and mathematical techniques. On the other hand, qualitative

research method is a subjective non-statistical exploratory investigative approach that

emphasizes on meaning of social phenomena. The integration of both research designs in a

single study is gaining momentum and popularity and hence vital for one to understand the

merits and demerits of such a mixed research method.

Creswell et al. (2004) notes that the use of both methods indicates that data will be

integrated, related, or mixed at some stage of the research process giving the researcher

additional insight and perspective that are beyond the scope of a single research method.

Furthermore, the possibility of triangulation, that is, ability to understand a phenomenon by

utilizing data gathered at various point using different techniques and methods is advantageous

(Begley, 1996). It is possible to handle a variety of research questions as one is not confined to

one method. Overall, generalizability of results increases with utilization of both designs. Use of

both provides concrete evidence to allow a firm conclusion through corroboration and

convergence of findings (Onwuegbuzie & Johnson, 2004).

The disadvantages include the fact that the research process could be time-consuming and

shrouded with complexities due to the vast amount of raw data gathered. It’s usually difficult for

researchers to have expertise in both methods and how to integrate them effectively. Mixed

method research could be an expensive undertaking. There is a need to figure out how to deal

with conflicting results and analyzing quantitative data qualitatively. (Onwuegbuzie & Johnson,

2004)
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF MIXED RESEARCH METHOD 3

In conclusion, both research methods have advantages and disadvantages, and it is clear

none can by itself capture and explain reality adequately. Therefore, use of mixed method with

consideration of relevance to a research problem should be welcomed so as to provide the much-

needed balance between the two research designs.

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Work Cited

Begley, C.M. (1996). Using triangulation in nursing research. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 24
(1), 122–128. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8807387

Cresswell, J.W., Fetters M.D., Ivankova N.V. (2004). Designing a mixed methods study in
primary care. Annals of Family Medicine, 2 (1):7–12. doi: 10.1370/afm.104

Johnson, R. B., & Onwuegbuzie, A. J. (2004). Mixed Methods Research: A Research Paradigm
Whose Time Has Come. Educational Researcher, 33(7), 14-26.
doi: 10.3102/0013189X033007014