Adaptive Case Study-Mixed Methods Design Practices for Researchers Studying Complex Phenomena

Abstract

The methodological purpose of this article is to generate practical guidance for researchers studying complex phenomena through an adaptive case study-mixed methods (CS-MM) design. We describe CS-MM design adjustments made in response to our rapidly changeable research conditions that make complex phenomena challenging to study. We leverage Guetterman & Fetters’ (2018) CS-MM design recommendations while discussing specific adaptive design practice areas and advancing new insights gleaned from an expanded 21-month timeline when compared with a previous 4-month CS-MM study. We draw upon Mike Fetters’ extensive scholarly contributions while striving to continue his legacy for a better world and embodying Mike’s “kind mentoring” approach in our team-based study of the complex phenomena involving the response to a public health emergency.