Abstract:

In recent years, a significant proliferation has been observed in the number of studies combining quantitative and qualitative methods in social sciences. This research strategy, defined as a mixed-method, requires a research design and theoretical framework that will enable the integration of different approaches in a single study, beyond the random use of qualitative and quantitative data. This article aims to put forward the principles of the application of mixed methods, which have an increasing weight in the literature and are accepted as the third main research method, with a comprehensive discussion. Following an introductory chapter on the definition, purpose, and advantages of the mixed method, different research designs on how the mixed method can be used will be discussed. These designs will be exemplified by studies from the field of political science and international relations. In the conclusion section, the criticisms directed to the mixed-method, and the difficulties that may be encountered in the application of the method will be emphasized. Thusly, a road map will be presented for researchers who are interested in the mixed method.

Keywords: