Mixing the Data
The mixing of data is a unique aspect of our definition. By mixing the datasets, the researcher provides a better understanding of the problem than if either dataset had been used alone. As we will discuss in Chapter 4, there
are three ways in which mixing occurs: merging or converging the two datasets by actually bringing them together, connecting the two datasets by having one build on the other, or embedding one dataset within the other so that one type of data provides a supportive role for the other dataset. Figure 1.2 presents a diagram that visually depicts these differences. In short, it is not enough to simply collect and analyze quantitative and qualitative data; they need to be “mixed” in some way so that together they form a more complete picture of the problem than they do when standing alone.
The mixing of data is a unique aspect of our definition. By mixing the datasets, the researcher provides a better understanding of the problem than if either dataset had been used alone. As we will discuss in Chapter 4, there
ReplyDeleteare three ways in which mixing occurs: merging or converging the two datasets by actually bringing them together, connectin