Mixed Methods Research in Developing Country Contexts: Lessons from Field Research in Six Countries across Africa and the Caribbean

SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: http://sagepub.com

Y

18

Foreign Countries; Developing Nations; Mixed Methods Research; Cultural Influences; Construct Validity; Regression (Statistics); Race; Power Structure; Gender Bias; Religion; Safety; Ethics

Africa; Caribbean; Ethiopia; Liberia; Sierra Leone; Trinidad and Tobago; Barbados; Grenada

10.1177/15586898211032825

1558-6898

Mixed methods research in developing countries has been increasing since the turn of the century. Given this, there is need to consolidate insights for future researchers. This article contributes to the methodological literature by exploring how cultural factors and logistical challenges in developing contexts interplay with mixed methods research design and implementation. Insights are based on the author's research experience of using mixed methods in six projects across three African and three Caribbean countries. Three lessons are provided to aid researchers using mixed methods working in developing countries. First, cultural factors call for more reflexivity. Second, adopting a pragmatic research paradigm is necessary. And third, the research process should be iterative and adaptive.

As Provided

2022

EJ1341300