Part III: Complex Research Designs in Practice

Introduction

Esoteric discussions about the epistemology and ontology of qualitative research notwithstanding, our studies are carried out in the real world, where the funding climate, the structure of academic careers and publishing requirements inevitably colour our endeavours and outputs. Moreover, many of those who employ qualitative methods are charged with the responsibility of bringing about change – either political or professional. For those of us who are seeking to carry out research that is relevant to practice, the use of mixed methods designs can be attractive. Such an approach may also find favour with research commissioners who are keen to fund research that can be seen as making a contribution to the ‘evidence base’ in addition to addressing the more ...