Mixed methods occurs when the researcher uses multiple methodologies to collect data. This may include both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Researchers choose mixed methods because some of the situations under study may suit quantitative methods while other situations may suit qualitative methods better. This allows the researcher to combine the strengths of each method used.
When to use the mixed method approach:
1. when the researcher wants to explore the situation from different perspectives
2. when insufficient or inaccurate information will be obtained by using only one methodology
3. when there is the intention to be able to generalise findings.
4. To find an explanation for the findings
5. To enhance the validity of the findings
6. when the research has multiple objectives.
(Kumar, 2014).
To access further information on this page, click on the quick links in the box below.
Strengths of mixed method studies:
1. Enhances the research possibilities:
This method suits research that has multiple questions, some of which will be better answered by one method than the other. The researcher can begin with surveys or structured interviews followed by more in-depth interviews that explore the results from the first method.
2. More flexible:
Mixed methods allows the researcher to use the best method to collect data on a particular aspect of the research question, then change to another method that may allow for a different aspect of the research to be explored.
3. Enriches the data:
While one method may produce basic data, changing to another method may allow for more specific exploration of parts of the research. A deeper understanding of the situation or phenomena may be the result.
4. Collection of additional evidence:
Mixed methods allows the researcher to compare the different sets of data to confirm or contradict more complex arguments.
(Kumar, 2014).
Limitations of mixed methods include:
1. Large amounts of data:
Mixed methods may produce more data than the researcher has time to process. This can increase the cost of the research, requires more effort and may also require increased technical skills. The researcher needs to ensure they have sufficient time to complete the data collection.
2. Wider skillset needed:
The researcher needs to be thoroughly versed in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. More skill is also required in the collection of the data. The researcher also needs to have a level of competence in data analysis using multiple techniques, particularly when it comes to triangulating the results.
3. Contacting study populations:
There may be complications contacting participants if there is more than one population group involved in the study. This can be time-consuming.
4. Disagreements in the data:
Researchers may find that the data sets from each methodology differ. This will require them to spend time attempting to resolve or account for the differences, making the study more complex to complete.
(Kumar,2014).
Mixed Methods by 
Mixed Methods and Credibility of Evidence in Evaluation by 
Initiating ethnographic research: A mixed methods approach by 
Business Research Methods 6E by