How do you balance quantitative and qualitative data in library research?

1 What is mixed methods research?

Mixed methods research is a research design that integrates quantitative and qualitative data in a single study or a series of studies. It aims to address a research problem or question from multiple perspectives, using the complementary strengths of both data types. For example, you might use quantitative data to measure the usage and impact of a library service, and qualitative data to explore the users' experiences and satisfaction with the service.

2 Why use mixed methods research?

Mixed methods research can be advantageous for library research, as it can strengthen the validity and reliability of findings through data triangulation. It also provides a deeper understanding of the topic by recognizing the complexity and diversity of human behavior and context. Additionally, mixed methods research can address gaps in literature or data, allowing for more flexibility and adaptability to changing research questions or situations. Finally, it increases the relevance and usefulness of research for different stakeholders by providing multiple forms of evidence and interpretation.

3 What are the challenges of mixed methods research?

Mixed methods research can be challenging for library researchers due to the need for additional time, resources, and skills to collect, manage, and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data. Careful planning and coordination is necessary to ensure the alignment of the components and integration of their coherence. There are also ethical and practical issues to consider such as informed consent, data protection, confidentiality, and quality assurance. Reporting and disseminating your results can be difficult in journals or venues that favor one type of data over the other. Furthermore, resistance or skepticism from reviewers or peers may arise concerning the validity or value of your mixed methods approach.

4 How to design a mixed methods project?

When designing a mixed methods project, there are general steps and considerations to guide you. Identify your research problem or question and determine how both quantitative and qualitative data can help answer it. Choose a mixed methods design that suits your purpose, research question, and available resources. There are many types of mixed methods designs, but they can be broadly classified into three categories. Select the appropriate data collection and analysis methods for each type of data, making sure they are compatible and relevant for your research question and design. Plan how you will integrate and interpret both types of data, either at the data level or at the interpretation level. Lastly, consider the ethical and practical implications of your mixed methods project such as obtaining informed consent, protecting data privacy, ensuring data quality, and addressing potential biases or conflicts.

5 What tools can help you with mixed methods research?

Mixed methods research can be facilitated by a variety of tools and resources, such as software programs like SPSS and NVivo, online platforms like Qualtrics and SurveyMonkey, guides such as the SAGE Handbook of Mixed Methods in Social & Behavioral Research, and courses including the Mixed Methods Research Training Program for the Health Sciences. These tools can help you manage data collection, sharing, and analysis, as well as provide practical advice and examples of mixed methods research. Additionally, workshops such as the Mixed Methods Research Certificate or the Mixed Methods Research Summer Institute are available to learn more about mixed methods research.