Recommended Citation
Strebig D, Koplitz A, Ludy H. More than numbers – Let’s talk about mixed methods research. Professional Development poster presentation at Empowering Nursing Excellence: Recognizing the Value and Impact of Nurses, Advocate Health Midwest Region Nursing Research & Professional Development Conference 2023; November 15, 2023; virtual.
Presentation Notes
Professional Development poster presentation at Empowering Nursing Excellence: Recognizing the Value and Impact of Nurses, Advocate Health Midwest Region Nursing Research & Professional Development Conference 2023; November 15, 2023; virtual.
Abstract
Introduction: There are multiple approaches to conducting research. Quantitative and qualitative research inform nursing practice, but quantitative research tends to be emphasized. At AAH, most nursing research studies (in excess of 90%) are quantitative in nature even when the research question focuses on the meaning of a phenomenon or experience of a research subject. Meaning and experiences are best elicited using qualitative methods. Using one method to answer a research question is sometimes not enough.
Purpose: This presentation will address the use of mixed methods – involving quantitative and qualitative data – to add value to a study and better answer the research question. Knowledge of the mixed methods approach to research may assist some nurses struggling with an appropriate research design.
Teaching Method: A recent mixed methods study about Type II violence against nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic will serve as the exemplar of a mixed method approach to research. Decision points in using mixed methods will be discussed and illustrated. Displaying findings from mixed methods data will be shared and drawing “metainferences” (the overall learning from both types of data when they are combined) will be demonstrated.
Results: Effective use of a mixed methods approach to research provides an option for nurses with complex research questions. Discussion of the research team’s training and support of the study demonstrates how novice researchers act as successful co-investigators this type of study.
Implications for Practice: Education about research methodologies can decrease nurse anxiety toward participating as a research team member. Skills necessary to conduct a mixed methods study are applicable in any nursing specialty study.
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
11-15-2023
More than numbers – Let’s talk about mixed methods research
Introduction: There are multiple approaches to conducting research. Quantitative and qualitative research inform nursing practice, but quantitative research tends to be emphasized. At AAH, most nursing research studies (in excess of 90%) are quantitative in nature even when the research question focuses on the meaning of a phenomenon or experience of a research subject. Meaning and experiences are best elicited using qualitative methods. Using one method to answer a research question is sometimes not enough.
Purpose: This presentation will address the use of mixed methods – involving quantitative and qualitative data – to add value to a study and better answer the research question. Knowledge of the mixed methods approach to research may assist some nurses struggling with an appropriate research design.
Teaching Method: A recent mixed methods study about Type II violence against nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic will serve as the exemplar of a mixed method approach to research. Decision points in using mixed methods will be discussed and illustrated. Displaying findings from mixed methods data will be shared and drawing “metainferences” (the overall learning from both types of data when they are combined) will be demonstrated.
Results: Effective use of a mixed methods approach to research provides an option for nurses with complex research questions. Discussion of the research team’s training and support of the study demonstrates how novice researchers act as successful co-investigators this type of study.
Implications for Practice: Education about research methodologies can decrease nurse anxiety toward participating as a research team member. Skills necessary to conduct a mixed methods study are applicable in any nursing specialty study.
Affiliations
Institute of Nursing Excellence