Using mixed methods to inform education policy research

Colleen E. Chesnut, John H. Hitchcock, Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

By moving from broad definitions of policy, policy inquiry, and mixed methods to the paradigmatic and analytical choices involved in conducting mixed methods research, this chapter provides guidance to education policy scholars interested in mixed methods. Recent peer-reviewed mixed methods studies on complex education policy problems illustrate how researchers have used mixed methods to interrogate these issues while attending to various perspectives and contexts. Ultimately, by outlining how to conceptualize a mixed methods inquiry for a hypothetical policy problem, we present an example of the decision-making processes essential to effective mixed methods research design. The guidance serves as a useful starting point for novices considering whether and how mixed methods research can inform their work to alleviate the complicated policy problems facing today’s education leaders.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationComplementary Research Methods for Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
PublisherPalgrave Macmillan
Pages307-324
Number of pages18
ISBN (Electronic)9783319935393
ISBN (Print)9783319935386
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2018

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Social Sciences

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