Shoshanna Sofaer, Dr.P.H.
School of Public Affairs
Baruch College

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Why use mixed methods
Key issues
 Timing/sequencing
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Multiple methods for collecting data for a single variable v. multiple variables
How one type of data collection can inform the other(s)
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Conundrums of analyzing mixed data
Reporting challenges and opportunities with mixed data

 When you want to ask a question that has rarely been asked or has been asked with questionable results
 When you want the strength of multiple methods triangulation
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When some, and only some, of your variables are easily quantifiable at this stage of inquiry
To “illuminate the black box”

 Model One: Qualitative first, use results to refine study questions, think through sampling and develop measures
 Model Two: Qualitative and quantitative in tandem
 Model Three, Quantitative first, qualitative to explore results in depth and/or “in situ”

 Using qualitative approaches to confirm or further explore existing quantitative data
(secondary)
 Using both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore the same variables
(primary)

 Using qualitative methods to explore some variables (e.g. independent variables) and quantitative methods to explore others
(e.g. dependent variables)
 Using qualitative methods to develop and refine quantitative measures

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Even in a “purely” qualitative project, it is often wise to gather as much existing data about your site or respondent before you arrive
 In a more mixed project, qualitative data can help you identify and test alternative interpretations of quantitative findings, and vice versa

 Mixed methods projects lend themselves to analysis along the way rather than just at the end
 Issue: do you analyze each kind of data separately and then look at how each sheds light on the other?
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Or do you analyze the data “together?”

 The elephant in the room: what if your quantitative data imply one set of findings which are open to question when qualitative findings are examined?
 This has to lead to a thorough re-examination of your methods and experiences
 This is one reason for starting analysis early so you can continue to do empirical exploration

 Challenges:
 How much do you integrate?
 How do you integrate?
 Do you present all kinds of data to all audiences?

 Opportunities
 Using qualitative findings to illustrate quantitative results
 Even though some audiences claim they only want hard, numerical evidence, most people really connect with the stories available through qualitative studies