A brief note on "the mono method, mixed method and multi method" and beyond

A brief note on "the mono method, mixed method and multi method" and beyond (information from perplexity.ai)

First of all study the brief note on "the mono method, mixed method and multi method". This topic is mainly related to the topic of research methodology.

My further discussion with perplexity.ai as follows:

My question 1: "The topic of "the mono method, mixed method and multi method" is mainly related to the topic of research methodology or research approaches (methods)?"

The reply: "The topic of "mono method, mixed method, and multi method" is mainly related to research methodology rather than just research approaches. These terms refer to the number and types of research methods used within research studies:

• Mono method involves using a single method or data collection technique, either qualitative or quantitative. It is a way of conducting research with one methodological approach.

• Mixed method combines both qualitative and quantitative methods within a single study to leverage the strengths of both.

• Multi method involves using multiple methods within the same research paradigm, either several qualitative methods or several quantitative methods.

These distinctions emphasize the methodological choices in research design, i.e., how data is collected and analyzed, rather than only referring to general research approaches or philosophical stances. Mono, mixed, and multi method describe different ways of structuring methodology to address research questions effectively. Thus, these concepts fall broadly under research methodology, as they focus on the study design and methods used to gather and analyze data in research projects."

My question 2: "How about using multiple methods with more than one research paradigm in a dissertation project? How to call it?"

The reply: "Using multiple methods with more than one research paradigm in a dissertation project is often referred to as a "multistrand mixed methods" or "mixed model" research design. These designs incorporate multiple methodologies guided by different paradigms and are characterized by the simultaneous or sequential use of methods from both qualitative and quantitative traditions.

Specifically:

• Multistrand mixed designs use two or more methodologies that may involve different paradigms. They can answer exploratory or confirmatory research questions by integrating qualitative and quantitative data in various ways.

• Such designs often involve complex integration strategies, including concurrent or sequential data collection and analysis stages, reflecting different research paradigms (e.g., post-positivism and interpretivism).

• Pragmatism is a common philosophical paradigm that supports this integration, enabling researchers to combine paradigms and methods flexibly to address multifaceted research problems.

Therefore, a dissertation using multiple methods with more than one research paradigm is best termed a multistrand mixed methods or mixed model design and is a recognized advanced approach in research methodology."

My question 3: "Is the "multistrand mixed methods" suitable for a part-time MBA and Housing Studies students to use in their dissertation projects, given that they have only gained some knowledge of research methods, have little experience in doing dissertation projects, have limited time to do their 4-month projects?"

The reply: "For part-time MBA and Housing Studies students with limited research experience, knowledge, and only 4 months to complete their dissertation projects, "multistrand mixed methods" is generally not the most suitable choice.

Reasons include:

• Multistrand mixed methods designs are complex, involving multiple research paradigms and sophisticated integration of qualitative and quantitative data, which can be challenging without strong methodological expertise.

• The limited timeframe of 4 months restricts the ability to carry out the multiple data collection and analysis phases needed in multistrand mixed methods.

• Students with limited experience may find it difficult to effectively manage the complexities of multiple paradigms and methods, potentially jeopardizing the quality and feasibility of the research.

For these students, a simpler approach such as a mono method (single method) or a straightforward mixed methods design (combining qualitative and quantitative methods but within a clear, manageable framework) is more appropriate. These approaches are easier to plan, execute, and complete within a short timeframe, while still offering useful insights.

In summary, multistrand mixed methods are better suited for experienced researchers with ample time. Part-time students with constrained time and research skills should consider simpler, more focused methodological approaches for their dissertations."

A collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.