Mixed Methods Research in Developing Country Contexts: Lessons From Field Research in Six Countries Across Africa and the Caribbean

Abstract

Mixed methods research in developing countries has been increasing since the turn of the century. Given this, there is need to consolidate insights for future researchers. This article contributes to the methodological literature by exploring how cultural factors and logistical challenges in developing contexts interplay with mixed methods research design and implementation. Insights are based on the author’s research experience of using mixed methods in six projects across three African and three Caribbean countries. Three lessons are provided to aid researchers using mixed methods working in developing countries. First, cultural factors call for more reflexivity. Second, adopting a pragmatic research paradigm is necessary. And third, the research process should be iterative and adaptive.

Conducting research by mixed methods: an autoethnography account of a PhD research in facilities management from a developing country

“…Despite the benefits of employing mixed methods for my studies, some practical challenges were encountered. As mentioned earlier in the introduction, previous methodological studies on mixed methods in developing countries have centered on challenges concerning norms, culture, language barriers and resource constraints (Harris, 2021; Teye, 2012). The focus of this discussion would, however, be on a new dimension of challenges associated with mixed methods and specifically, the exploratory sequential mixed-methods research in a health-care environment.…”

“…Although cultural, norms, language barriers and positionality were not observed as challenges in my study, it is worthwhile to consider these challenges and revise the research design when necessary and feasible. Teye (2012) and Harris (2021) advance several useful recommendations in this regard. From my perspective, five key challenges were outlined which include; ethical clearance challenges, adverse attitude toward research, time lapse for data analysis of an exploratory sequential design, targeted population and appropriate statistical techniques as well as publishing the mixed methods in academic journals.…”

“…Moreover, there are limited facilities to support quality research and appreciation of the importance of research (Teye, 2012; Matenga et al , 2019). Several researchers view the underdeveloped research infrastructure as a major standing block in developing countries (Harris, 2021). Given this research environment, much time and resources are required for data acquisition and related field works.…”

“…Teye (2012) noticed the paucity of mixed-methods research in natural resource setting in developing countries, subsequently, the author discussed the challenges and positionality of mixed methods in Ghana. Drawing from her experience from research in six developing countries, Harris (2021) examined cultural factors and logistical challenges associated with mixed-methods research. Jones (2017), Taghipoorreyneh and de Run (2020) examined culture and norms of societal issues associated with mixed-methods research.…”

In This Issue: Mixed Methods in Global South Countries, Integration of Geospatial Mapping and Qualitative Inquiry, Generative Sequential Mixed Methods Research, Q Methodology, and Participatory Research in Sustainability Studies

“…Regarding the articles in the April 2022 issue, in the first article, Harris (2022) with affiliations in politics and international studies, examined the use of mixed methods research in Global South countries. Specifically, the author provided insights based on her experience of using mixed methods in six projects across three African (Ethiopia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone) and three Caribbean (Barbados, Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago) countries.…”