Directives for Conducting Multi-Method Studies
In the realm of research, a powerful approach known as the Convergent Parallel Design has emerged as a robust framework for comprehensive understanding. This design, often referred to as a mixed methods research design, was first introduced in the 1970s by Jick and has since gained significant recognition.
The Convergent Parallel Design is employed when the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data are equally important in understanding a problem. The design procedure can be summarized in four main steps: collecting quantitative and qualitative data, analyzing the data, combining, and interpreting.
One of the key benefits of this design is its ability to triangulate methods. Triangulation, as defined by Jick, involves the combination of methods to investigate the same phenomenon, categorizing it into "between methods" (e.g., using interviews and surveys) and "within methods" (e.g., using multiple techniques within a single approach). This strategy helps to enhance the validity and depth of research, as demonstrated by Norman K. Denzin in his seminal work, "The Research Act: A Theoretical Introduction to Sociological Methods".
In the Convergent Parallel Design, the data is collected separately and then analyzed, after which the results are combined or integrated to compare, contrast, or merge the results. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon by comparing multiple levels within a system.
There are several variants of the Convergent Parallel Design. Creswell (2017) identifies three common variants: parallel databases, data validation, and data transformation. In the parallel databases variant, two separate research strands (quantitative and qualitative) are conducted independently and combined in the interpretation phase, as demonstrated by Feldman and Kafai (2008) in their study of youth activities in virtual online communities. In the data validation variant, researchers use qualitative responses to support or validate quantitative results, as seen in Webb, Sweet, and Pretty (2002) where they examined the psychological impacts of mass disasters on forensic dentists. In the data transformation variant, researchers place unequal weight on one (usually quantitative) strand and use data transformation methods to combine results.
The Pragmatism philosophical approach guides the Convergent Parallel Design, emphasizing the practical application of ideas and the usefulness of knowledge in solving real-world problems. This design is used when a researcher wants to triangulate methods by comparing and contrasting quantitative and qualitative data for confirmation and validation. It is also used to illustrate quantitative results with qualitative data and to obtain different but complementary data on the same topic to better understand a research problem, as is the purpose of the design procedure.
In conclusion, the Convergent Parallel Design offers a powerful and versatile approach to research, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of complex phenomena by combining quantitative and qualitative data. Its practical application and ability to triangulate methods make it an invaluable tool in the researcher's arsenal.
