What does the term "mixed methods" refer to in research?

The term "mixed methods" in research refers to combining qualitative and quantitative research approaches within a single study. This approach allows researchers to capitalize on the strengths of both methodologies, providing a more comprehensive understanding of a research problem. By integrating quantitative data, which can offer statistical analysis and generalizability, with qualitative data, which provides rich, contextual insights, researchers can triangulate their findings and strengthen the validity of their conclusions.

For example, a study might involve collecting numerical data, such as survey responses, while also conducting interviews to gather deeper insights into participants' experiences. This combination can lead to a more nuanced interpretation of the results, as the qualitative data can help explain the patterns observed in the quantitative data.

The other options, while relevant to research in various contexts, do not accurately define mixed methods. Multiple surveys from different populations focus on diverse data collection rather than integrating methods. Recruiting participants from diverse cultural backgrounds emphasizes sample diversity but does not specifically relate to the mixing of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Utilizing both primary and secondary data sources pertains to data types but does not capture the essence of integrating differing research methodologies in the mixed methods framework.