76. How Mixed Methods Research Evolved

About this lesson

Welcome to Module 5.2 in our series on research methodology! In this short lecture, we explore the evolution of mixed methods research, tracing its journey from philosophical debates and “paradigm wars” to becoming a recognized, rigorous, and integrative methodology across disciplines.

In This Micro-Lecture, You’ll Learn

• The historical roots of mixed methods research
• How the “paradigm wars” shaped methodological integration
• Key philosophical foundations: pragmatism, critical realism, transformative paradigms
• Major debates: paradigmatic compatibility, integration challenges, and reporting standards
• How mixed methods has matured into a sophisticated, flexible research approach

Topics Covered

• Historical context of mixed methods development
• Core philosophical underpinnings
• Paradigmatic debates and breakthroughs
• Growth of integration strategies and quality frameworks

Ideal for students, educators, and researchers in the social sciences, public health, education, and beyond, this module offers a concise yet deep dive into how mixed methods research became what it is today.

Tags

mixed methods research, historical development, paradigm wars, research methodology, qualitative and quantitative, integration of methods, research history, pragmatism, critical realism, transformative paradigm, dialectical pluralism, methodological evolution, mixed methods design, academic research, public health research, educational research

Lesson notes

Full written notes for this lesson are in production. Until they publish, watch the video above and use the summary on this page as your study guide.