Integrating Literature as a Data Source in Mixed Methods Research

Abstract

Integration is a hallmark of mixed methods research and is constantly evolving. Joint displays have emerged as an effective method of integration at the analysis and interpretation level, facilitating visual comparison of quantitative and qualitative findings to present inferences greater than the quantitative and qualitative findings alone. Although literature reviews and concept analyses frequently precede mixed methods investigations, these are not commonly included in the integration process. To advance mixed methods research, we present a novel method of integrating data sources including rigorous literature reviews using joint display, that builds on the concept of creating a sum that is greater than quantitative and qualitative findings alone, with examples from two research studies.