Mixed methods: Expanding research methodologies in pharmacy education

Mixed methods research combines quantitative and qualitative research to address a research question. Researchers engaging in mixed methods can establish a more complete understanding of an issue, triangulate findings, develop a complementary picture, identify trends, and validate results. Using mixed methods research may provide a more accurate and comprehensive reflection of educational experiences and outcomes across the span of pharmacy, including admissions, experiential education, and faculty development. Expanding our research toolkit to include multiple approaches for collecting, analyzing, and applying quantitative and qualitative data are likely to strengthen educational research in pharmacy education and broaden our impact across the health professions. After reviewing this article, the reader should be able to define mixed methods research, provide recommendations for its use, identify applications for pharmacy education, and describe the implications and limitations of the mixed methods approach.