Mixed Methods Research

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Mixed Methods Research

The goal of the Mixed Methods Research Lab (MMRL) in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health is to foster the use of qualitative and mixed methods research methodologies with a focus on integrating key stakeholder perspectives and goals into research designs.

The MMRL works with investigators to provide conceptual and technical support for community based and clinical research questions. Qualitative, mixed methods and action research are uniquely suited to capture the contextual, socio-cultural, and experiential factors that contribute to health disparities.

We were thrilled with the final report and the willingness of the team to speak with us to ensure that we had an in depth understanding of the qualitative data. We would absolutely recommend MMRL as they were extremely knowledgeable, professional, and communicative throughout the process.

April Reilly, MSW, Regional Cancer Control Director, American Cancer Society

What is Mixed-Method Research?

Mixed Methods research is a systemic integration of quantitative and qualitative methods in a single study for purposes of obtaining a fuller picture and deeper understanding of a phenomenon.

Who can use the MMRL?

Faculty, staff, trainees, students, and community members who are affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pennsylvania Health System, or a University of Pennsylvania research project are eligible to use MMRL services.   Outside groups may also use MMRL services and should contact lab managers to discuss their specific needs.

What services does the MMRL provide?

MMRL services are divided between project development and project support.  Tasks in either domain are staffed by MMRL faculty or staff depending on the specific programmatic needs of the application. 

Project development services include:

  • Proposal development
  • Instrument development
  • Research design
  • Sampling
  • Data collection strategies
  • Data management strategies
  • Analytic approaches
  • Human subjects protocol
  • Budget development
  • Manuscript development
  • Reviewing and editing

Project support services include:

  • Training in qualitative data collection: interviewing, observations, focus groups
  • Software training: NVivo, Anthropac
  • Data collection
  • Database management
  • Transcription
  • Data coding
  • Data analysis
  • Iterative quantitative-qualitative synthesis
  • Technical support