Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research

Abstract Despite the growing use of qualitative and mixed methods research in various disciplines, including applied linguistics, there has been a concern that mixed methods designs may prioritize quantitative methods and relegate qualitative components to a secondary role. The objective of this entry is to discuss the significant role that qualitative research component plays in mixed methods research by reflecting on certain contributions of qualitative components. In particular, it highlights the role of qualitative method in enhancing the transferability of the findings in mixed methods research by providing contextual descriptions and strengthening the explanatory power of the findings to address how and why questions. The discussions are hoped to encourage mixed methods researchers in applied linguistics to think about the rationale of incorporating qualitative methods, the integral role they can play, and how more effectively they can enrich the quality of their mixed methods designs and results.