Onto-Epistemological Assumptions Underpinning Mixed Methods Research Designs

Philosophical assumptions play a significant role in the selection of mixed methods research design variants as they enable researchers to reflect on their perceptions of the nature of reality and how to construct knowledge pertaining to that reality. The chapter elucidates the importance of philosophical assumptions in the choice of an appropriate mixed methods research design variant. Using relevant vignettes, the chapter articulates the nexus between the philosophical stance of built environment researchers and the choice of mixed methods research design. This chapter facilitates an appreciation of the philosophical assumptions that guide the process of knowledge discovery using mixed methods research designs within the built environment discipline.