Explanatory sequential design

Definition

Explanatory sequential design is a mixed methods research approach where the researcher first collects and analyzes quantitative data, followed by qualitative data to further explain or elaborate on the initial findings. This design is particularly useful for providing a deeper understanding of quantitative results by using qualitative insights to clarify and contextualize them, often leading to richer interpretations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In explanatory sequential design, the quantitative phase is conducted first to establish a baseline understanding before delving into qualitative data.
2. The qualitative phase helps to interpret and provide context to unexpected or significant results found in the quantitative phase.
3. This design often involves a two-phase process: the initial quantitative study followed by a qualitative study that seeks to explain the quantitative results.
4. Explanatory sequential design can improve the validity of research findings by triangulating data sources and methods.
5. This approach is beneficial in fields like education and health sciences where understanding participant experiences can enhance numerical data interpretations.

Review Questions

• How does explanatory sequential design enhance the interpretation of research findings compared to using only quantitative methods?
  • Explanatory sequential design enhances interpretation by allowing researchers to first gather quantitative data, which provides a statistical overview of the research question. After analyzing this data, qualitative methods are employed to explore the reasons behind these numbers. This combination allows for a more nuanced understanding of the results, as qualitative insights can reveal motivations, attitudes, and contexts that numbers alone might overlook.
• Discuss the benefits of using explanatory sequential design in educational research compared to convergent parallel design.
  • Explanatory sequential design offers distinct advantages in educational research by providing an initial quantitative overview followed by qualitative insights that clarify those findings. In contrast to convergent parallel design, where both methods are collected simultaneously, this approach allows researchers to focus on interpreting quantitative outcomes before diving into qualitative inquiries. This structured sequence aids in generating more targeted interview questions or focus group discussions based on earlier results, ultimately enriching the educational research context.
• Evaluate how explanatory sequential design can lead to more comprehensive conclusions in mixed methods research than other designs.
  • Explanatory sequential design can lead to more comprehensive conclusions by ensuring that qualitative data serves as a direct response to quantitative findings. This sequence allows researchers to first identify patterns or anomalies in their numerical data and then explore these findings qualitatively for deeper insight. By systematically connecting the two phases, this approach enhances the credibility of the research by addressing potential discrepancies and enriching the overall narrative, making it particularly effective in capturing complex social phenomena that other designs may miss.

Related terms

Mixed Methods: A research approach that combines both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a comprehensive analysis of a research question.

Quantitative Research: A systematic investigation that primarily focuses on quantifying relationships, behaviors, or phenomena through statistical analysis.

Qualitative Research: A research method aimed at understanding human behavior, experiences, and social contexts through non-numerical data like interviews, observations, or text analysis.