Mixed Method Research Designs: Compare and Contrast
This paper compares and contrasts six mixed method research designs: convergent parallel, exploratory sequential, explanatory, embedded, transformative, and multiphase. Drawing on Creswell and Clark (2011) and Clark and Ivankova (2015), the paper explains how each design handles the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, including the sequencing and integration of both data types. It then identifies key similarities among the designs, noting which share concurrent data collection, which use phased approaches, and how they differ in the order in which each data type is prioritized.
- Introduction to Mixed Method Designs: Brief framing of the six designs covered
- Overview of the Six Mixed Method Designs: Defines each of the six mixed method designs
- Similarities and Differences Among Designs: Compares designs by data collection sequence and integration
- References: Cited sources by Creswell, Clark, and Ivankova
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What makes this paper effective
- Systematically defines each of the six mixed method designs before comparing them, giving the reader a clear foundation before analysis begins.
- Grounds every claim in specific, named sources (Creswell and Clark, 2011; Clark and Ivankova, 2015), demonstrating consistent citation practice throughout a short paper.
- Uses parallel sentence construction to describe each design, making distinctions easier to follow and reinforcing the comparative structure.
Key academic technique demonstrated
The paper demonstrates disciplined compare-and-contrast organization: it first defines all six designs individually, then pivots to explicit comparisons by grouping designs that share structural features (e.g., concurrent collection, sequential phases). This two-part structure—description then analysis—prevents conflation and allows nuanced distinctions, such as the order in which qualitative versus quantitative data is collected in explanatory versus exploratory sequential designs.
Structure breakdown
The paper contains two substantive paragraphs. The first catalogs all six mixed method designs with brief definitional descriptions drawn from the cited sources. The second paragraph draws comparative observations, pairing designs by shared characteristics and highlighting the key differentiating feature—data collection order—between designs that might otherwise appear similar. A reference list closes the paper.
Introduction to Mixed Method Designs
Mixed method research designs combine the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data within a single study or program of inquiry. Six principal designs have been identified in the literature: convergent parallel, exploratory sequential, explanatory, embedded, transformative, and multiphase. Each differs in the sequencing and integration of data types.
Overview of the Six Mixed Method Designs
In a convergent parallel design, the researcher collects and analyzes both quantitative and qualitative data within the same timeframe or within the very same phase of the research process (Creswell and Clark, 2011). The two data sets are then compared or merged to produce a fuller understanding of the research problem.
The exploratory sequential design features several distinct phases: the collection and analysis of qualitative data first, followed by the collection and analysis of quantitative data, and finally the amalgamation of findings from both strands. This sequencing allows initial qualitative insights to inform the subsequent quantitative phase. More detail on this approach can be found in discussions of exploratory research methods.
In an explanatory design, Clark and Ivankova (2015) point out that quantitative data collection and analysis is undertaken first, and qualitative data collection and analysis follows in a subsequent phase. The qualitative strand is used to help explain or elaborate on the quantitative results.
The embedded design also begins with quantitative data collection and analysis, followed by qualitative data collection and analysis (Creswell and Clark, 2011). The defining feature of this design is that one type of data is nested within a larger study dominated by the other type, meaning the secondary data strand plays a supporting rather than equal role.
In the transformative design, the collection, analysis, and interpretation of both quantitative and qualitative data are combined within a theoretical framework oriented toward advocacy or social change (Creswell and Clark, 2011). The overarching transformative lens guides all methodological decisions. Researchers interested in the philosophical underpinnings of this approach may consult Britannica's overview of research methodology.
Finally, the multiphase design employs a number of study designs across multiple projects conducted over time. Rather than a single integrated study, this design involves the conduction of multiple mixed method projects that together address a broader program goal.
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