The course will begin with an overview of the issues involved with mixed-methods research, highlighting the accolades and the criticisms of integrating approaches. The course will then focus on the research questions and evaluation situations that are conducive for mixed-methods, and the variety of designs that are possible (e.g., parallel mixed methods that occur at the same time and are integrated in their inference; sequential designs in which one method follows another chronologically, either confirming or disconfirming the findings, or providing further explanation).
A key focus of the course will be on strategies for implementing mixed-methods designs, as well as analyzing and reporting data, using examples from the instructor’s work and those offered by course participants. The course will be highly interactive, with ample time for participants to discuss how the course can be applied to their own work. Participants will work in small groups on an example that will carry through the three days of the course. Participants will be sent materials prior to the course as a foundation for the method.
Recommended Audience:
The course is best suited for evaluators who have some prior experience in conducting evaluations, but have not had formal training in designing, conducting, and analyzing mixed methods studies.