What are some emerging trends and innovations in mixed methods research in nursing?

2 MMR Integration and Synthesis

Another key challenge of MMR is to integrate and synthesize the qualitative and quantitative data and findings in a meaningful and coherent way. There are different strategies and techniques for MMR integration and synthesis, such as triangulation, complementarity, expansion, initiation, or meta-inference. However, some researchers point out that these strategies are often applied superficially or mechanically, and suggest more rigorous and reflexive ways of integrating and synthesizing MMR data and findings. For example, some MMR integration and synthesis techniques involve the use of visual tools, such as matrices, models, diagrams, or maps, to display and compare the qualitative and quantitative data and findings. Others involve the use of narrative tools, such as stories, vignettes, or scenarios, to illustrate and contextualize the MMR data and findings.

3 MMR Quality and Evaluation

A third key challenge of MMR is to ensure and assess the quality and rigor of the MMR study and its outcomes. There are different criteria and standards for MMR quality and evaluation, such as validity, reliability, credibility, trustworthiness, or utility. However, some researchers question the applicability and relevance of these criteria and standards, and suggest more holistic and inclusive ways of evaluating MMR quality and rigor. For example, some MMR quality and evaluation criteria focus on the ethical and social implications of the MMR study, such as its relevance, responsiveness, or empowerment. Others focus on the epistemological and ontological assumptions of the MMR study, such as its coherence, consistency, or transparency.

4 MMR Software and Technology

A fourth key challenge of MMR is to use and manage the software and technology that can facilitate and support the MMR process and outcomes. There are different software and technology tools for MMR, such as data collection, analysis, integration, synthesis, presentation, or dissemination. However, some researchers highlight the limitations and challenges of these tools, and suggest more innovative and adaptive ways of using and managing them. For example, some MMR software and technology tools enable the collaboration and communication among the MMR team members and stakeholders, such as online platforms, forums, or wikis. Others enable the engagement and participation of the MMR participants and audiences, such as mobile apps, games, or simulations.

5 MMR Education and Training

A fifth key challenge of MMR is to acquire and develop the skills and competencies that are required for conducting and disseminating MMR studies. There are different sources and resources for MMR education and training, such as courses, workshops, books, journals, or websites. However, some researchers emphasize the gaps and needs of these sources and resources, and suggest more effective and accessible ways of providing and enhancing them. For example, some MMR education and training sources and resources incorporate the experiential and collaborative learning of the MMR process and outcomes, such as case studies, simulations, or mentoring. Others incorporate the interprofessional and interdisciplinary learning of the MMR process and outcomes, such as joint projects, networks, or communities of practice.

6 MMR Future Directions and Opportunities

A sixth key challenge of MMR is to anticipate and respond to the future directions and opportunities that will shape and influence the MMR field and practice. There are different trends and innovations that will affect the MMR process and outcomes, such as new research questions, paradigms, methods, designs, frameworks, strategies, techniques, tools, criteria, standards, sources, resources, challenges, or solutions. However, some researchers also emphasize the potentials and possibilities of these trends and innovations, and suggest more proactive and visionary ways of exploring and embracing them. For example, some MMR future directions and opportunities involve the integration and synthesis of multiple types and sources of data beyond the qualitative and quantitative dichotomy, such as big data, digital data, or arts-based data. Others involve the integration and synthesis of multiple perspectives and voices beyond the researcher and participant roles, such as co-researchers, co-creators, or co-owners.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?