Data Integration: A Real-Time, Participant-Driven, and Visually Supported Method

Abstract

We introduce a method in which instant data visualization facilitates real-time data integration and involves participants in data interpretation. The results of quantitative research (e.g., electronic card sorting) are represented visually (e.g., in a dendrogram) and fed back to research participants in follow-up focus group conversations. The visualized quantitative results are reviewed and discussed by participants. The visual display of the quantitative results is annotated with qualitative feedback generated by participants that explains, enriches, or challenges the quantitative results. We apply our method in a card sorting study of Fédération Internationale de Football Association’s (FIFA) stakeholders. An approach that facilitates real-time data integration that is participant driven and visually supported is the unique contribution of this article to mixed methods research.

Reflexive Integration of Research Elements in Mixed-Method Research

“…Second, RIRE can help illuminate the step-by-step decision-making process in research generally and in mixed-method research. The latter being a well-documented challenge (Alexander et al, 2020; Bryman, 2006; Bustamante, 2019; Gutterman et al, 2019; Johnson et al, 2019). RIRE may also be a bridge that connects reflexivity operating unconsciously, the unconscious predilection for making decisions in research, and activating reflexivity to operate in the foreground as a central tool (see Biddle & Schafft, 2015; Cain et al, 2019; Hesse-Biber, 2010).…”

The paradigm wars and the incompatibility thesis live on: Trends and adequacy in the use of mixed methods research in the Ghana Journal of Development Studies

“…The literature suggests that meaningful integration of qualitative and quantitative data remains elusive because researchers of MMR experience difficulties in integrating the analysis and interpretation of the qualitative and quantitative datasets (Alexander et al, 2021;Lynam et al, 2020).…”

Virtual Special Issue on “Integration in Mixed Methods Research”

“…Alexander et al (2020) advanced a visual process for integration that involves research participants. Using this innovative approach, they developed visuals to represent quantitative data collected from participants in a card sort and then used those visuals in a focus group to gather participant feedback and to annotate the visuals.…”