Practicing Multiple and Mixed Methods Research Responsibly: Some Paradigmatic Considerations

Abstract

In this chapter I engage with some of the discoursesDiscoursein the multiple and mixed methods research (MMMR)Multiple and Mixed Methods Research (MMMR)literature. I consider five paradigmatic positionsParadigmstretching of paradigmatic positions(postpositivist, constructivist, transformative, pragmatic, Indigenous) in relation to the practice of MMMR, while appreciating that paradigmatic positions are not unitary and also can evolve. In keeping with, and stretching somewhat, the transformative research paradigm---while also looking at options for stretching ``other'' paradigms---I propose a focus in all social research on how those involved in the research endeavor (the initiating researchers and others involved) can take some responsibility and co-responsibilityResponsibility of researchersco-responsibilityforImpactco-responsibility forthe potentially impactful character of the research. This means that their ``cognition'' becomes recognized as being tied to considerations of the shaping effects of the research in/on the quality of our social and ecological existence. It is this recognition which can inspire an intent to advance more ``just'' social outcomes---and hopefully ecological outcomes too---as discussed in the research context.