No, a survey on its own is not mixed methods; survey methods and mixed methods research are distinct methodological approaches.
While both are valuable research tools, they represent different paradigms. According to information available, both survey methods and mixed methods research are distinct methodology approaches in the health and social sciences. This highlights that conducting a survey is a specific methodology, separate from the broader framework of mixed methods research.
Understanding the Distinction
To clarify, let's look at the core definitions:
- Survey Methods: A research approach primarily used to collect data from a predefined group of respondents to gain information and insights into various topics of interest. Surveys often employ questionnaires and gather quantitative data, although they can include qualitative questions.
- Mixed Methods Research: A methodology where the researcher collects and analyzes data, integrates the findings, and draws inferences using both qualitative and quantitative approaches or methods in a single study or sequential series of studies.
The key takeaway is that a survey is a method for data collection (often associated with quantitative approaches), whereas mixed methods is an approach that combines multiple methods (typically both quantitative and qualitative).
How Surveys Relate to Mixed Methods
Although distinct, surveys can play a role within a mixed methods design. The reference notes, however, that they can be combined in a single mixed methods study with appropriate planning and thought about their combined use. This means a survey can be one component of a larger mixed methods study.
For instance, a researcher might:
- Use a quantitative survey to gather broad statistical data (quantitative phase).
- Follow up with qualitative interviews or focus groups to explore specific survey findings in more depth (qualitative phase).
- Analyze and integrate the data from both phases.
In this scenario, the survey is a tool used within the mixed methods design, but the entire study is classified as mixed methods because it intentionally combines quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques.
Comparing Survey Methods and Mixed Methods Research
| Feature | Survey Methods | Mixed Methods Research |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Data collection from a sample | Combining multiple data types |
| Data Type | Primarily Quantitative (can include qualitative) | Combines Quantitative and Qualitative |
| Scope | A specific method/tool | An overarching research design |
| Goal | Describe characteristics, explore relationships within a population | Provide a more complete understanding by integrating different perspectives |
Key Considerations
When using a survey within a mixed methods study:
- Purpose: Clearly define why the survey is needed and how its data will contribute to the overall mixed methods goal.
- Sequencing: Decide whether the survey data will be collected before, after, or concurrently with other data types (e.g., qualitative data).
- Integration: Plan how the survey data will be analyzed in conjunction with other data sources to achieve a unified understanding.
In conclusion, while a survey is a powerful research method in its own right, it is not synonymous with mixed methods. Mixed methods research is a broader strategy that can incorporate surveys alongside other data collection techniques to provide a richer, more comprehensive answer to research questions.
