Qualitative Methods

In the process of Comparing and contrasting qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods design, a retrospective view is cited in an attempt to aid in the current debate. When we reflect on a simular situation that occured with Socrates and Plato versus multiple or relative approaches of Protagoras and Gorgias of the Sophists. The process can be compared and contrasted to balances or mixtures of the extremes by Aristotle or principle of balance, under the more moderate scepticism of Cicero, Sextus Empiricus. It can also be traced back to ancient Western philosophy as outlined and argued by Burke, Onwuegbuzie, & Turner, (2007). In some way it can be argued, that a similar rival spirit continues to agitate researchers on the dawn of the 21st

Therefore, from the forgoing discussions, there is need for greater inclusion of qualitative and mixed methods in the social and behavioural sciences moving forward. The comparison and contrast between quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods will undoubtedly be more pronounced as researchers challenge new frontiers such as the social and digital medias. The International Journal of Social Research Methodology (April 2006) attested to the growing interest with respect to design methodologies in the social sciences. As a result, several factors can be accredited to this

Bryman (2010), argued that although the paradigm wars had subsided in recent times, there were still discussions as to the legitimacy of mixed methods. However, as researchers move into the 21st century; mixed methods legitimacy is no longer a debated matter. Journal of Mixed Methods Research (2009), has reported an increasing number of fields which originally relied on quantitative and qualitative methodologies have seen significant potential with mixed methods approach to research problems. Fields such as education, psychology, social sciences, behavioural sciences, and health sciences has greatly benefited through its full acceptance. Currently, all three methods perform on parallel planes in the academic community although qualitative approach is still viewed as inadequate for the natural sciences. O’Cathain, Murphy, & Nicholl, (2007) argued in favour of mixed methods design, partly because of the strong position attributed to this method in recent research activities. Creswell & Plano Clark (2011) agreed that mixed methods has matured significantly and can now directly compliment the traditional quantitative and qualitative research methods. With the ever increasing popularity of qualitative methodology, researchers in social sciences and other disciplines have yet another methodology from which to choose.