Making Sense of Mixed Methods: The Generalization Dilemma

Mixed methods research is a hot topic these days. It blends qualitative and quantitative approaches to tackle complex issues. This blend has become a favorite in program evaluation. Yet, there's a big question mark hanging over it. How well does it generalize findings? Generalization is a key concern in research. It's about how well results from a study can apply to a larger group. In mixed methods research, this issue has been largely overlooked. This is surprising, given the method's growing popularity. The aim is to shed light on how generalization is handled in mixed methods research. First up, let's talk about external validity. This is a fancy term for how well research results can be applied to real-world situations. In impact evaluation, mixed methods can offer a deeper understanding. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that these insights can be generalized. So, how is generalization understood in mixed methods research? It's often seen as a way to bridge the gap between specific findings and broader applications. But the reality is more complex. The literature on this topic is mixed. Some studies emphasize the strengths of mixed methods in generalization. Others point out the weaknesses. A closer look at the literature reveals some interesting patterns. Many studies struggle with generalization. They often rely on convenience sampling, which limits how far results can be applied. Others use small sample sizes, further complicating generalization. Yet, there are strategies to boost generalization. These include using multiple data sources and triangulation. In conclusion, mixed methods research has a lot to offer. But it's not without its challenges. Generalization is a big one. To make the most of mixed methods, researchers need to tackle this issue head-on. They must think critically about their methods and the limits of their findings.