Mixed methods studies are been increasingly applied to a diversity of fields. In this paper, we discuss the growing use—and enormous potential—of mixed methods research in the field of sport and physical activity. A second aim is to contribute to strengthening the characteristics of mixed methods research by showing how systematic observation offers rigor within a flexible framework that can be applied to a wide range of situations. Observational methodology is characterized by high scientific rigor and flexibility throughout its different stages and allows the objective study of spontaneous behavior in natural settings, with no external influence. Mixed methods researchers need to take bold yet thoughtful decisions regarding both substantive and procedural issues. We present three fundamental and complementary ideas to guide researchers in this respect: we show why studies of sport and physical activity that use a mixed methods research approach should be included in the field of mixed methods research, we highlight the numerous possibilities offered by observational methodology in this field through the transformation of descriptive data into quantifiable code matrices, and we discuss possible solutions for achieving true integration of qualitative and quantitative findings.
Abstract:The following paper introduces a new approach to the analysis of sports and motor skill performance. The approach, known as T-pattern detection, is explained and preliminary data analyses from soccer, boxing, basketball, swimming and motor skill analysis are presented. The data show that specific temporal patterns can be identified within sports performances. The temporal patterns can relate to performance of specific actions (e.g. passes) or movement patterns. Further analysis showed a significant correlation between coaches' ratings' of performance with the number of temporal patterns exhibited by athletes.
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