Low Hanging Fruit, Ripe for Inquiry: Considering the Quantitative Dimensions of Mixed Methods Research

This chapter provides an introductory lesson on the purpose of including quantitative data in mixed methods research studies. Depending on the researcher’s goal and the study context, quantitative data can be “low hanging fruit” that inspires qualitative research: (a) by determining whether qualitative or anecdotal evidence is generalizable, and/or (b) by coordinating quantitative and qualitative data collection in tandem along two parallel tracks. In this lesson, students engage in a case study activity that emphasizes four key components of mixed methods research design: interaction, sequencing, prioritization, and integration. The chapter offers a sample exercise that requires students to apply the lesson to an investigation of college access issues and to consider how they might use quantitative data in their study. The chapter ends with recommended readings to help instructors and students reinforce and master the use of quantitative data in mixed methods research.