Human Services ACADAMICK Only

Assignment 1: Mixed-Methods Research

Your textbook covers both quantitative and qualitative research designs in detail, both of which contain valuable design strategies. However, a third design strategy that can be very useful is the mixed-methods design, in which the researcher combines both the quantitative and qualitative techniques in a single study.

In this assignment, you will review the mixed-methods approach to understand its application in human services.

Tasks:

Search the Argosy University online library resources and the Internet to learn more about the mixed-methods design strategy. In a minimum of 200 words, post your responses to the following:

• Share what you have learned about the mixed-methods strategy, including the strengths and weaknesses of this type of research design.
• Explain whether you would prefer using the mixed-methods methodology if you go on to conduct human services research one day. Why or why not?

Now, using the Argosy University online library resources, locate a research study in which a mixed-methods design was used and address the following:

• How were the quantitative and qualitative techniques employed in the study?
• Why do you think the researcher chose a mixed-methods study over a complete quantitative or qualitative design? If you were the researcher, would you have also chosen to use the mixed-methods design? Why or why not?

Submission Details:

• By Saturday, December 19, 2015, post your responses to this Discussion Area.
• Through Wednesday, December 23, 2015, read and respond to at least two other classmates' posts that differ from your opinion. Consider commenting on any additional information you found about the mixed-methods design. In addition, engage in a discussion of whether you would have used a mixed-methods design in the study that your classmates referenced.