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Mixed methods research synthesis: definition, framework, and potential

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  • M. Heyvaert

  • B. Maes
  • P. Onghena

Abstract

Literature on the combination of qualitative and quantitative research components at the primary empirical study level has recently accumulated exponentially. However, this combination is only rarely discussed and applied at the research synthesis level. The purpose of this paper is to explore the possible contribution of mixed methods research to the integration of qualitative and quantitative research at the synthesis level. In order to contribute to the methodology and utilization of mixed methods at the synthesis level, we present a framework to perform mixed methods research syntheses (MMRS). The presented classification framework can help to inform researchers intending to carry out MMRS, and to provide ideas for conceptualizing and developing those syntheses. We illustrate the use of this framework by applying it to the planning of MMRS on effectiveness studies concerning interventions for challenging behavior in persons with intellectual disabilities, presenting two hypothetical examples. Finally, we discuss possible strengths of MMRS and note some remaining challenges concerning the implementation of these syntheses. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2013

Suggested Citation

  • M. Heyvaert & B. Maes & P. Onghena, 2013. "Mixed methods research synthesis: definition, framework, and potential," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 47(2), pages 659-676, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:qualqt:v:47:y:2013:i:2:p:659-676
    DOI: 10.1007/s11135-011-9538-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Barbara Hanson, 2008. "Wither Qualitative/Quantitative?: Grounds for Methodological Convergence," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 42(1), pages 97-111, February.
    2. Nancy Leech & Anthony Onwuegbuzie, 2009. "A typology of mixed methods research designs," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 43(2), pages 265-275, March.
    3. repec:aen:journl:dn-se-a01 is not listed on IDEAS
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    Cited by:

    1. Helen Cerigo & Amélie Quesnel-Vallée, 2020. "Systematic mixed studies reviews: leveraging the literature to answer complex questions through the integration of quantitative and qualitative evidence," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 65(5), pages 699-703, June.
    2. Mattia Casula & Nandhini Rangarajan & Patricia Shields, 2021. "The potential of working hypotheses for deductive exploratory research," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 55(5), pages 1703-1725, October.
    3. Spasojevic, Bojana & Lohmann, Gui & Scott, Noel, 2019. "Leadership and governance in air route development," Annals of Tourism Research, Elsevier, vol. 78(C), pages 1-1.
    4. Lawarée, Justin & Jacob, Steve & Ouimet, Mathieu, 2020. "A scoping review of knowledge syntheses in the field of evaluation across four decades of practice," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    5. Heinz Herrmann & M. J. Cobo Martín, 2025. "Bidding for B2B or B2G tenders: toward the adoption of pricing models in practice," Management Review Quarterly, Springer, vol. 75(2), pages 1495-1533, June.
    6. repec:plo:pone00:0229792 is not listed on IDEAS
    7. Helen Cerigo & Amélie Quesnel-Vallée, 0. "Systematic mixed studies reviews: leveraging the literature to answer complex questions through the integration of quantitative and qualitative evidence," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 0, pages 1-5.
    8. Gjoko Stamenkov, 2023. "Recommendations for improving research quality: relationships among constructs, verbs in hypotheses, theoretical perspectives, and triangulation," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 57(3), pages 2923-2946, June.
    9. Liz Forbat & Natalie Kunicki & Michael Chapman & Clare Lovell, 2017. "How and why are subcutaneous fluids administered in an advanced illness population: a systematic review," Journal of Clinical Nursing, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 26(9-10), pages 1204-1216, May.
    10. Nick Pilcher & Martin Cortazzi, 2024. "'Qualitative' and 'quantitative' methods and approaches across subject fields: implications for research values, assumptions, and practices," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 58(3), pages 2357-2387, June.
    11. Mohammad Amini Farsani & Esmat Babaii & Maryam Beikmohammadi & Meysam Babaii Farsani, 2022. "Mixed-methods research proficiency for applied linguists: a PLS-path modelling approach," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 56(5), pages 3337-3362, October.

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