What is a primary characteristic of mixed-methods research?

The primary characteristic of mixed-methods research is the integration of different data sources. This approach combines qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a more comprehensive view of a research problem. By blending these two types of data, researchers can leverage the strengths and mitigate the weaknesses of each method, leading to more robust findings and a deeper understanding of the research questions.

Mixed-methods research allows for a richer data set, as qualitative data can provide context to numerical findings, and quantitative data can validate or expand upon qualitative insights. This approach is particularly useful in exploring complex issues, where a single method might overlook important elements. The emphasis on integration means that the research design intentionally combines and synthesizes multiple perspectives, often leading to more insightful conclusions than either method could achieve on its own.