A Critical Reflection of Generalization in Mixed Methods Research
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| Title: | A Critical Reflection of Generalization in Mixed Methods Research |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Quan Nha Hong (ORCID |
| Source: | Evaluation Review. 2026 50(2):200-230. |
| Availability: | SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 31 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Evaluative |
| Descriptors: | Mixed Methods Research, Generalization, Validity, Research Needs, Research Design, Research Problems |
| DOI: | 10.1177/0193841X251331723 |
| ISSN: | 0193-841X 1552-3926 |
| Abstract: | Mixed methods research, that is, research that integrates qualitative and quantitative methods, has become increasingly popular in program evaluation because of its potential for understanding complex interventions. Despite recent constructive and fruitful developments that have led to the consolidation of mixed methods as a distinctive methodology, fundamental methodological issues such as generalization have received little attention. The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical reflection on how the concept of generalization has been used in mixed methods research. The paper is structured into four main parts. First, we discuss the relevance of external validity and mixed methods research in impact evaluation. Second, we summarize how generalization is conceptualized in mixed methods research. Third, we present the results of a literature review on generalization practices in mixed methods research. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of threats to and strategies for enhancing generalization in mixed methods research. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1499347 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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| Abstract: | Mixed methods research, that is, research that integrates qualitative and quantitative methods, has become increasingly popular in program evaluation because of its potential for understanding complex interventions. Despite recent constructive and fruitful developments that have led to the consolidation of mixed methods as a distinctive methodology, fundamental methodological issues such as generalization have received little attention. The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical reflection on how the concept of generalization has been used in mixed methods research. The paper is structured into four main parts. First, we discuss the relevance of external validity and mixed methods research in impact evaluation. Second, we summarize how generalization is conceptualized in mixed methods research. Third, we present the results of a literature review on generalization practices in mixed methods research. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of threats to and strategies for enhancing generalization in mixed methods research. |
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| ISSN: | 0193-841X 1552-3926 |
| DOI: | 10.1177/0193841X251331723 |
