What is mixed methods research design?
Mixed methods research has often been classified as an attempt at combining quantitative and qualitative research techniques, methods, approaches, concepts or language. It is also an attempt whereby multiple approaches to answering research questions are justified as opposed to restricting researchers’ choices to any particular research design. Johnson and Onwuegbuzie (2004) sees mixed research design as based on the pragmatic method and system of philosophy as pragmatism helps to bridge the gaps existing between various conflicting philosophies (as are formative experiments). As the issues in today’s world are becoming increasingly complicated, dynamic, and interdisciplinary in nature, researchers sometimes need more than one method to arrive at superior research findings. Mixed methods provide researchers with the flexibility that often becomes essential in answering their questions.
