Systematic Mixed-Methods Research for Social Scientists

Wendy Olsen is Professor of Socio-Economics at the University of Manchester, UK. She researches employment, informal work, gender, norms, and labour markets. Her books include Rural Indian Social Relations (1996), Realist Methodology (ed., 4 volumes, 2010), and Data Collection (2012).

Part I Setting Up Systematic Mixed Methods Research (SMMR).- 1 Mixed Methods for Research on Open Systems.- 1.1 The Link Between Quantification and Mixed Methods.- 1.2 A Conceptual Introduction to Methodology and Ontology.- 1.3 Triangulation.- 1.4 Three Domains of Reality, As Realists Approach Research.- 1.5 Conclusion.- Appendix.- References.- 2 Mixed Methods with Weakly Structuralist Regression Models.- 2.1 Modelling and Methodology for Mixed Methods.- 2.2 Strategic Structuralism.- 2.3 Logics Used in Strategic Structuralist Research.- 2.4 Conclusion.- Appendix.- References.- Part II SMMR Approaches in Practical Terms.- 3 Causality in Mixed-Methods Projects That Use Regression.- 3.1 Causality in a Regression Model.- 3.2 Stages of Research Design Amendment for Mixed-Methods Research.- 3.3 Deduction Cannot Stand Alone.- 3.4 A Quantitatively Complex Example.- 3.5 Conclusion.- References.- 4 Multiple Logics in Systematic Mixed-Methods Research.- 4.1 Multiple Logics in Statistical Research: Some Exemplars.- 4.2 An Exemplar Using Participatory Research with Panel Data.- 4.3 A Statistical Exemplar with a Randomised Control Trial for a Social Intervention.- 4.4 Warranted Arguments and Two Caveats for Strategic Structuralism.- 4.5 An Exemplar Using Correspondence Analysis Without Regression.- Appendix.- References.- 5 Factor Analysis in a Mixed-Methods Context.- 5.1 Latent Variables and Entities.- 5.2 One Could Use Exploratory or Confirmatory Factor Analysis.- 5.3 Measurement Issues for the Manifest Variables in a Confirmatory Model.- 5.4 Mixed-Methods Research Designs Using Latent Variables.- 5.5 Whether to Use Scoping Analysis or Primary Field Research.- 5.6 Research Scope and Feedback Loops.- 5.7 Closed and Open Retroduction in a Factor Analysis Context.- 5.8 The Ontological Element.- 5.9 Conclusion.- References.- 6 Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA): A Classic Mixed Method Using Theory.- 6.1 QCA Is an Umbrella Over Many Procedures.- 6.2 Tables Help to Summarise Qualitative Comparative Evidence.- 6.3 Data Reduction Has Been Well Theorised.- 6.4 Threshold Tests, Quasi-Sufficiency, and Next Steps in QCA.- 6.5 Conclusion.- Appendix.- References.- 7 Calibration of Fuzzy Sets, Calibration of Measurement: A Realist Synthesis.- 7.1 Two Forms of Calibration: Ordered Categories or Fuzzy Sets.- 7.2 Features of Multiple Hypothesis Tests Using Fuzzy Sets.- 7.3 Asymmetry of the Causal Mechanisms? Issues Around Counterfactuals.- 7.4 How to Make and Illustrate Deep Linkages.- Appendix.- References.- 8 From Content Analysis to Discourse Analysis: Using Systematic Analysis of Meanings and Discourses.- 8.1 Methods of Qualitative Analysis and Elaboration of Findings.- 8.2 Qualitative Methods, with a Content Analysis Example.- 8.3 Three Illustrations Demonstrating Deep Arguments Based on Depth Ontology.- 8.4 Conclusion.- Appendix.- References.- Part III Interpretation and the Validity of Research.- 9 Interpretations, Meanings, and Validity in Mixed-Methods Research.-9.1 Truth Is Not Simple in a Complex Society.- 9.2 Epistemology for Late-Modern Mixed Methods.- 9.3 Falsifying Hypotheses: Possible and Desirable, but Not Necessary.- 9.4 A Retroductive Approach.- 9.5 Conclusion.- References.- 10 Summary of the Logics and Methods for Systematic Mixed-Methods Research.- 10.1 Induction.- 10.2 Deduction.- 10.3 Retroduction.- 10.4 Synthesis.- 10.5 Recognising Relevant Irreducible Phenomena (Holism).- 10.6 Logical Linkage.- 10.7 Conclusion.- References.- 11 Glossary.