Research indicates that mixed methods can be an extremely useful tool to unite the strengths of other forms or inquiry while minimizing the limitations. Mixed methods can enhance validity however, the appropriate use of mixed
methods is difficult to deliver (Bazeley (2002). Mixed methods is generally a costly and time intensive area of research that could potentially pose challenges for many researchers.
Key Limitations
Some common criticism of Mixed Methods Research
Key Limitations
- While combining research strategies can appear to be common sense, it is not always practical or efficient to employ this method because of the time and costs involved with training multiple researchers on limited funds (Viadero 2005 p.2)
- In order to conduct this form of research there is great deal of data collection involved that is more complex. Consequently higher volumes of researchers and time will be needed in addition to more strenuous efforts to train the (Creswell, 2014, p. 278-279)
Some common criticism of Mixed Methods Research
- Lack of clear purpose and substantive focus
- Appropriate use of quantified coding from qualitative data
- Appropriate use of generalization to match research methods (Bazely, p. 9)