Introduction/Overview

This introductory course provides an overview of the key principles and procedures in mixed methods research. Mixed methods research can be a valuable approach when conducting research on complex topics that cannot be fully understood by quantitative or qualitative research alone. The course covers the theories behind mixed methods research, why to use mixed methods research and how to integrate the quantitative and qualitative elements of your research. We will focus on how to design and conduct mixed methods research and how to present and report mixed methods findings.

Attendees are provided with guidance and will have the opportunity to discuss their projects and how they can use mixed methods research in their work. This course will benefit those involved in research in a variety of sectors and disciplines, and only a basic understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods is required.

Learning Outcomes

• A good understanding of the key principles of mixed methods research and when it is appropriate to apply this approach.
• Ability to plan a mixed methods research project.
• A good understanding of the different ways to integrate the quantitative and qualitative strands of research.
• A good understanding of how to report on mixed methods research findings.

Topics

During the course we will cover:

• The key principles of mixed methods research.
• The strengths and challenges of using mixed methods.
• Conducting mixed methods research - planning your research and selecting your methods.
• Selecting the sequence and priority in which to undertake the quantitative and qualitative elements of your research.
• How to integrate findings from the quantitative and qualitative parts of your research.
• How to write up mixed methods findings.

Who will benefit

This course will benefit those looking to explore how they can use mixed methods research to understand complex research topics that cannot be fully understood by using one method alone. Only a basic understanding of quantitative and qualitative research is needed to benefit from this course. It will be relevant to those involved in research from a wide range of sectors and disciplines.

Course tutors

Dr Sarah Jasim, Policy Fellow, Greater London Authority / Senior Research Fellow, LSE & UCL (NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North Thames)

Sarah is experienced in mixed methods complex evaluations in academic-policy partnerships, social care and health services; specialising in theory of change, realist and process evaluations. She has over 10 years of experience in teaching research methods to researchers in universities, local authorities, the voluntary sector and the NHS.

Dr Ruth Plackett, Research Fellow, UCL

Ruth is an experienced mixed methods researcher and has conducted evaluations of digital interventions and research into the impacts of social media on mental health. She has over 7 years of experience in teaching research methods to researchers in universities, local authorities, the voluntary sector and the NHS.

  This course contributes 6 hours to the MRS CPD programme

Looking to book for four or more people from your organisation? Please let us know before booking by emailing: [email protected]