Mixed Method Designs Definitions and Comparisons

Mixed Method Designs – Compare and Contrast

From the onset, it would be prudent to note that in a convergent parallel design, the researcher partakes in the collection as well as analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data within a similar timeframe or within the very same research process phase (Creswell and Clark, 2011). On the other hand, exploratory sequential design features several phases which are inclusive of; the collection and analysis of qualitative data, the collection and analysis of quantitative data, and the amalgamation of data from both. Third, Clark and Ivankova (2015) point out that in explanatory design, quantitative data collection as well as analysis is first undertaken, followed by qualitative data collection and analysis. When it comes to the embedded design, Creswell and Clark (2011) are categorical that “quantitative data is collected and analyzed first, followed by qualitative data” (93). Next, in relation to the transformative design, the collection, analysis as well as interpretation of quantitative as well as qualitative data is combined (Creswell and Clark, 2011). Lastly, we have the multiphase design. On this front, a number of study designs are utilized. Thus, it should be noted that this would largely involve the conduction of multiple mixed methods projects.

It would be prudent to note that when it comes to the similarities, convergent parallel design and embedded design are similar in the sense that the collection of qualitative and quantitative data takes place within the same period of time. On the other hand, explanatory and exploratory sequential designs are similar in the sense that there are different phases for the collection and analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data. It should, however, be noted that whereas quantitative data is collected first in the former (i.e. in the case of explanatory design), qualitative data is collected first in the latter (i.e. in the case of exploratory design). The convergent parallel design is also similar to the transformative design to the extent that the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data is combined.