Abstract

Mixed methods research involves both qualitative and quantitative methods usually used synergistically. Rooted in eclecticism and pragmatism, mixed methods research is growing as universities increasingly emphasize community engagement and as government departments and not-for-profit agencies and community organizations develop research capacity. Acknowledging ongoing tensions between qualitative and quantitative research paradigms, we outline some principles and tenets of mixed methods research and then use examples from our own research with young children and families from culturally, linguistically and socially diverse communities to show how we attempted to actualize or enact these principles. Reflecting the pragmatic philosophy underlying mixed methods, we share a number of factors for consideration in a changing educational research milieu. We remind readers that the purpose of the study and the research questions should determine methods and thus in some studies, mixed methods is not appropriate.