Lessons learned: advantages and disadvantages of mixed method research
Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management
ISSN: 1176-6093
Article publication date: 12 April 2011
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is first, to discuss the theoretical assumptions, qualities, problems and myopia of the dominating quantitative and qualitative approaches; second, to describe the methodological lessons that the authors learned while conducting a series of longitudinal studies on the use and usefulness of a specialized balanced scorecard; and third, to encourage researchers to actually use multiple methods and sources of data to address the very many accounting phenomena that are not fully understood.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper is an opinion piece based on the authors' experience conducting a series of longitudinal mixed method studies.
Findings
The authors suggest that in many studies, using a mixed method approach provides the best opportunity for addressing research questions.
Originality/value
This paper provides encouragement to those who may wish to bridge the authors' ideological gaps and to those who are actively trying to do so.
Keywords
Citation
Malina, M.A., Nørreklit, H.S.O. and Selto, F.H. (2011), "Lessons learned: advantages and disadvantages of mixed method research", Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Vol. 8 No. 1, pp. 59-71. https://doi.org/10.1108/11766091111124702
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited