Media Review: Qualitative Comparative Analysis in Mixed Methods Research and Evaluation

Abstract

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is both a case-oriented research approach and analytic technique that uses set theory to understand causal relationships among conditions and an outcome (Rihoux & Ragin, 2009). Both quantitative and qualitative data can be used in QCA making the method useful for mixed methods research (MMR; de Block & Vis, 2019). QCAwas created by a sociologist, Charles Ragin, in 1987 (Ragin, 1987) and has slowly gained traction in multiple fields to provide a deeper understanding of causal complexity (e.g., Hill et al., 2019). If you are looking for a useful resource for understanding and conducting QCA within the context of MMR, we highly recommend Qualitative Comparative Analysis in Mixed Methods Research and Evaluation by Leila C. Kahwati and Heather L. Kane. This text is the 6th volume in the “Mixed Methods Research Series” providing applied and practical practice for QCA within MMR. Kahwati and Kane bring their practical experience using QCA in MMR to life within the pages of this text. The structure, content, and organization allow researchers to quickly grasp QCA and MMR concepts and apply it to their own research. This review comes from the perspective of a graduate student with interest and training in QCA andMMR and a senior researcher with MMR training and experience publishing studies using QCA.