How Can I Effectively Facilitate A Mixed-methods Research Design Workshop For Graduate Students To Help Them Integrate Quantitative And Qualitative Data Collection And Analysis Procedures In A Way That Allows Them To Critically Evaluate The Epistemological And Ontological Assumptions Underlying Their Research Questions, While Also Ensuring That They Adhere To The Institutional Review Board's Guidelines For Human Subject Research?

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Facilitating a Mixed-Methods Research Design Workshop: A Structured Approach

Objective:
To guide graduate students in integrating quantitative and qualitative research methods, critically evaluating underlying assumptions, and adhering to IRB guidelines.

Workshop Structure and Outline

  1. Introduction and Icebreaker (30 minutes)

    • Icebreaker Activity: Students briefly share their research topics to tailor the workshop to their needs.
    • Workshop Overview: Outline objectives, agenda, and expected outcomes.

  2. Fundamentals of Mixed-Methods Research (1 hour)

    • Lecture: Define mixed-methods research, discussing types (convergent, explanatory, exploratory) and their applications.
    • Discussion: Address when mixed-methods are appropriate and their advantages.

  3. Epistemological and Ontological Considerations (1 hour)

    • Discussion: Explore epistemology (positivist vs. interpretivist) and ontology (objective reality vs. social constructivism).
    • Reflective Exercise: Students reflect on assumptions in their research, facilitated through group discussions.

  4. Integrating Data Collection and Analysis (1.5 hours)

    • Lecture: Cover data collection (surveys, interviews) and analysis methods (statistical, thematic).
    • Case Studies: Present examples of successful mixed-methods studies.
    • Group Activity: Students design mixed-methods studies in groups, considering integration approaches (convergent, explanatory).

  5. Institutional Review Board (IRB) Guidelines (30 minutes)

    • Lecture: Overview of ethical considerations, informed consent, and confidentiality.
    • Workshop: Students draft IRB applications with feedback.

  6. Hands-On Tools and Resources (30 minutes)

    • Demonstration: Introduce tools like NVivo and SPSS for data analysis.
    • Workbook Distribution: Provide materials, including templates and checklists.

  7. Assessment and Feedback (30 minutes)

    • Group Presentations: Students present their study designs.
    • Peer Review: Encourage constructive feedback.

  8. Wrap-Up and Next Steps (30 minutes)

    • Q&A Session: Address remaining questions.
    • Next Steps: Discuss continued support, including office hours and online forums.

Engagement and Support Strategies

  • Interactive Elements: Use think-pair-share and group discussions to maintain engagement.
  • Follow-Up: Offer post-workshop resources and support, such as office hours and online forums.

Conclusion

This structured workshop will provide a comprehensive understanding of mixed-methods research, emphasizing theoretical, practical, and ethical considerations. By fostering an interactive and supportive environment, students will be equipped to design robust, ethically sound studies.