Over the past 25 years there have been numerous calls for increased methodological diversity in integrating quantitative and qualitative research approaches which has spawned varied typologies of a mixed method design.
There are various types of mixed method including distinguishing features which focus upon methods of data collection and analysis, the relative contribution of quantitative and qualitative, and how these are sequenced within an overall research design. Hanson et al (2005) consider that mixed methods research has become increasingly popular and maybe now considered as a legitimate, stand-alone research design within health and social sciences. Examples of mixed methods research include the development of health surveys, assessing health outcomes, assessing health service provision and healthy quality improvement initiatives.
The distinct advantage of a mixed method approach is that research findings can be enriched by the effective utilisation of concurrent and sequential quantitative and qualitative data which in turn allows researchers to gain a much deeper understanding of the phenomenon of interest.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module you will be able to:
- Critically evaluate the key concepts involved within mixed methods research designs in relation to its origins and philosophy of knowledge.
- Critically appraise and interpret the different methods and techniques of mixed methods research.
- Explore the essential research skills in mixed methods research for research projects designed for a health and social sciences population.
- Critically consider the challenges in both the presentation and dissemination of mixed methods research in relation to reliability, validity and ethical consideration.
Credits
20 credits
Module attendance required
40 hours
Course dates
Study dates
24 to 28 March 2025
Presentations over two days
1 May 9-4pm
2 May 9-4pm
Assignment submission
6 May 10am
Assessment
- 2,000 word written assignment (70%)
- PowerPoint presentation of a research proposal utilising a specific mixed method approach to a current health care related issue (30%).
Academics involved in the delivery of this module
Course prerequisite
Degree needed
For more information please contact the Programme Administrator:
Tel: +44 (0)121 414 6014
Email: acp@contacts.bham.ac.uk
You can choose to study this course as either a microcredential or a non-credit CPD short course.
Why choose a Postgraduate Microcredential short course?
- Microcredentials offer the perfect opportunity to boost your CV without the committment of a full-degree
- Earn a Postgraduate Microcredential certificate, you can use these credits towards further study at postgraduate level.
- Develop the specialist skills you need for your career goals
- Alumni status with the University of Birmingham
Please note that once registered for the microcredential you cannot swap for the non-credit shortcourse version.
Apply for the Microcredential
Non-credit short course
The microcredential and the non-credit short course follow the same course structure, the difference between them both is with the non-credit short course you do not take the assessment at the end therefore you will not receive credits but will recieve a certificate of completion, this certificate cannot be converted to credits.
Please note if you apply for the non-credit short course, you cannot swap to the microcredential version once registered.
Apply for the non-credit CPD shortcourse