“Mixed Methods in my Bones”: Transcending the Qualitative-Quantitative Divide

Abstract

Jennifer Mason (2006, p. 19) calls for thinking that transcends or even subverts the qualitative-quantitative divide. She suggests it is more helpful to think in terms of multidimensional research strategies and to develop “‘multi-nodal’ dialogic explanations that allow the distinctiveness of different methods and approaches to be held in creative tension.” In this article, I analyse the problem that she raises, provide an alternative multidimensional perspective, and describe ways mixed methods researchers can put that perspective into practice.