Combinations of Practical Integration Strategies Used in Mixed Methods Information Studies

Mixed methods, integrating qualitative (QUAL), and quantitative (QUAN) methods (e.g., research questions, data collections and analyses, and results) in empirical studies and program evaluations are becoming increasingly popular for answering complex questions. Several strategies for integrating QUAL and QUAN phases, results, and data have been proposed over the years, but their conceptualization is usually design-driven, or fragmented, or not empirically tested. In addition, researchers, graduate students, and professionals using mixed methods find it difficult to plan, conduct, and report the application of these strategies simply and clearly. In this chapter, the authors will present nine practical strategies and several combinations of strategies, illustrated with published mixed methods studies in information science. This chapter contributes to advance methodological knowledge on mixed methods in information science and calls for better reporting of mixed methods studies and integration strategies specifically.