Methodology: Mixed-Methods Research Design

Abstract

This chapter refines the principal research question introduced initially in Chap. 1, viz: What is the relationship between Greater Seattle’s smart growth plans and territorial programs and the shifting geographies of work, home, and mobility? These questions include both quantitative and qualitative dimensions and suggest a mix-methods research approach based on a what is called here an “abductive” philosophy on inquiry. The chapter discusses this approach, highlighting the use of interview data, documentary review, census and GIS analysis, and other visualization techniques. The chapter also discuss the main data sources, including quantitative data on jobs, housing, and transportation and qualitative data that help interpret, visualize, and contextualize major quantitative trends, including interviews, site visits, analysis of public documents, newspaper and activist accounts, and drone imagery.