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Using Mixed Methods in Research and Program Evaluation

Dates: 
February 20, 2012 - February 24, 2012
Instructor: 
Dr Gordon Emmerson

This is a course for those interested in practical approaches to undertaking mixed method research and program evaluation; that is, inquiry that combines qualitative and quantitative methodologies. It will provide grounding in both approaches, a defence for the utility of combined methodologies, and practical strategies to ensure research questions are addressed.
 
Participants will be encouraged to share research issues and challenges in designated group sessions. The course will include a blend of presentation and activities in pairs and small groups to encourage interaction and open exchange of ideas.
 

Learning Objectives: 

Monday: Introduction to mixed methods research

  • Defining parameters: qualitative and quantitative research
  • Learning the language of each methodology
  • Applications of mixed method research in practice (academic/policy research)
  • Conceptualising design – fixed and flexible designs

Tuesday: Designing a research or evaluation study – Design frameworks

  • Characteristics of research design: quantitative – experimental, quasi-experimental,
    non-experimental; qualitative – ethnography, grounded theory, and case study
  • Linking research questions to purpose
  • Asking meaningful research questions – ensuring methods address research questions

Wednesday: Sampling and data collection strategies and procedures

  • Probability and non-probability sampling procedures
  • Surveys, semantic differential and goal attainment scaling
  • Interviewing, focus groups and observational techniques
  • Types of data and choosing approaches

Thursday: Analysing qualitative and quantitative data

  • Choosing the right statistical procedure, e.g. Chi-square, t-test, ANOVA, ANCOVA, regression, correlation
  • Analysing statistical data
  • Qualitative data analysis procedures – manual methods: content, thematic, matrix displays, narrative
  • Computer applications for qualitative and quantitative data
  • Integrating qualitative and quantitative data

Friday: Validity and trustworthiness issues in mixed method designs representing qualitative and quantitative data for research and evaluation for academic and policy audiences

  • Threats to validity in research and evaluation design
  • Validity and trustworthiness in mixed methods research/program evaluation
  • Establishing valid claims
  • Writing up: Integrating and reporting mixed methods research
References: 

Greene, J. (2007). Mixed Methods in Social Inquiry. Jossey Bass: Wiley.

Robson, C. (2002). Real World Research (2nd ed), Oxford: UK: Blackwell.

Thody, A. (2006). Writing and presenting research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.