Mixed methods: Finding a place for qualitative research: Lecture + Q&A with Professor David Silverman [webinar]

There is increasing interest in collaborative research engaging different disciplines/sectors and methods. Are there some proven approaches in planning a large collaborative project involving both qualitative and quantitative research that ensure the qualitative contribute is optimized? Professor Silverman begins by describing the appeal of mixed methods. Using examples from both academic journals and student research projects, he will discuss studies that mix both qual and quant or just mix different qualitative methods. Professor Silverman will then outline the limitations of the suggestion that, by using mixed methods, we can reveal the ‘whole picture’ of some social phenomenon. He will also draw attention to the naïve positivist assumptions behind much mixed methods research.

Most mixed methods research begins with quantitative data and then moves on to qualitative materials, usually open-ended interviews. Professor Silverman will criticize the assumption that this allows us to ‘go deeper’ or more empathetically into social phenomena. Quantitative research must define its variables at the outset in order to measure them reliably. In his view, the beauty of qualitative research is that, mostly using naturalistic data, it allows us to understand how social phenomena are put together rather than to legislate their character at the outset. He will conclude by demonstrating a more fruitful division of labour between quant and qual research through which we can gain by mixing methods.

Biography

Prof David Silverman is Visiting Emeritus Professor at Leeds University Business School, Professor Emeritus in the Sociology Department at Goldsmiths College, London Visiting Professor in the King's College Business School, University of London and the Business School, University of Technology, Sydney as well as Adjunct Professor at QUT, Faculty of Education. He has authored 15 books and over 60 journal articles on qualitative research, ethnography and conversation analysis. Thirty of his students have successfully completed their PhD and three are now full Professors.