Journal of Mixed Methods Studies

Matrix Researched: Towards Full(er) Integration in Mixed Methods and Multiple Methods Research Via a Meta-Matrix Approach

Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie — 2024-06-30

In this arts-based mixed methodological article, a movie script—the first in a series of movie scripts—is used to
dramatize the journey of Ynot, an alias used by Professor Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie, as he navigates his first day
of unemployment after his forced early retirement from full-time academia. Ynot embarks on a journey to
demonstrate the power of integrating an array of qualitative and quantitative research approaches, methodologies,
philosophies, methods, techniques, concepts, language, modes, disciplines, fields, and/or teams within a single
study. Inspired by superheroes HalleBerryus and Mixedmethodus, Ynot aims to save the research world from
paradigm wars and methodological purism through the extensive use of the Inter-Respondent Matrix. This Matrix
is a tool for achieving a full(er) integration of research elements from the onset of studies, conceptualized by
Onwuegbuzie (2017) as the 1 + 1 = 1 integration approach. The story is set in a cinema where two lifelong friends,
Nilep and Ellah, excitedly await the screening of “Matrix Researched.” The narrative weaves through Ynot’s
realization of his mission, encounters with HalleBerryus and Mixedmethodus, and their guidance towards utilizing
the Matrix for fully integrating research methodologies. Alongside the narrative, the article delves into the
historical and theoretical underpinnings of matrices in research, demonstrating their application across various
fields, disciplines, cultures, and eras. The Matrix is portrayed as a versatile and powerful tool, not just in
quantitative and qualitative research, but also in bridging the gap between them via fully integrated mixed methods
research. Ynot’s journey symbolizes the potential for researchers to navigate and to integrate diverse research
elements to enhance the robustness and depth of their investigations. The superheroes’ guidance emphasizes the
significance of open-mindedness and creativity in research endeavors, encouraging a shift towards not only a
mixed methodological way of thinking but also a full(er) integration way of thinking. Ynot, HalleBerryus, and
Mixedmethodus stand united in advocating for a more inclusive and integrated approach to research, highlighting
the benefits of fully integrating qualitative and quantitative elements for a more comprehensive understanding of
complex and complicated research questions. The use of the Matrix, both as a metaphor and a practical tool, serves
as a central theme, illustrating the transformative power of mixed methods research in overcoming traditional
barriers stemming from a monomethod way of thinking and fostering innovation and insight in academic inquiry.

Towards Mixed Methods Narrative Inquiry and Mixed Methods Narrative Research that are Transparent, Rigorous, Ethical, and Equitable (TREE)

Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie — 2024-06-30

This article examines the intersection of mixed methods research with both narrative inquiry and narrative
research—what we refer to as mixed methods narrative inquiry and mixed methods narrative research,
respectively—proposing a novel meta-framework based on Transparency, Rigorousness, Equitableness, and
Ethicality (TREE). Through a comprehensive analysis, we explore the philosophical foundations, including social
constructionism and social constructivism, that inform narrative inquiry and narrative research. A systematic
review of the literature that we conducted previously highlights the underutilization of mixed methods research
approaches in narrative studies—revealing only 36 Scopus-indexed works that represent either mixed methods
narrative inquiry or mixed methods narrative research over a 64-year period (1960-2004), which represents less
than 1% of all narrative inquiry and narrative research studies published to date. The scant focus given to
conducting mixed methods narrative inquiry and mixed methods narrative research studies underscores the
necessity of our call for an increased use of these research approaches that promote greater methodological
integration. By introducing a TREE-oriented meta-framework, underscored by a tree metaphor, we advocate for
research approaches that fully integrate the depth of narrative inquiry and narrative research with the empirical
strength of quantitative analysis. This article contributes to the scholarly conversation by offering a framework
that can help researchers navigate and enrich their understandings of the complexity of human experiences through
mixed methods narrative inquiry and mixed methods narrative research. The proposed approach aims to enhance
the richness, depth, and ethical considerations in narrative-based investigations, presenting a compelling case for
the symbiotic relationship between qualitative depth and quantitative clarity.

Blending Voices and Methods: Exploring the Frontier of (Integrated) Mixed Methods Autoethnography

Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie — 2024-06-30

In this introductory article, we—Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie, Sandra Schamroth Abrams, and Madeline L.
Abrams—weave together our personal and collective narratives to guide readers through the diverse and evolving
landscape of autoethnography, particularly focusing on its integration with mixed methods research approaches.
As we reflect on our experiences and the historical context of autoethnography, we present a compelling set of
five articles that, collectively, expands both the theoretical and the practical applications of this field. In the first
article, the authors outline 10 dimensions of autoethnography, enhancing its conceptual flexibility. They discuss
integrating qualitative and quantitative research within autoethnography, using concentric circles to depict its
hierarchical and fluid structure—from general autoethnography to integrated mixed methods autoethnography.
The second article explores the integration of critical dialectical pluralism and a radical middle stance in mixed
methods research, promoting an integrated autoethnographic approach that harmonizes social justice with
methodological rigor. The third article examines integrated mixed methods autoethnography in design-based
research, particularly in educational settings. This approach deepens the understanding of educational innovations
by linking personal experiences with broader pedagogical implications, thereby enriching educational research
authenticity. In the fourth article, the authors use an autoethnographic theater method—blending narrative,
performance, and research—to highlight the value of integrating Indigenous Sámi perspectives and land
acknowledgements into academic settings. The final article features a 17-year-old author using integrated mixed
methods autoethnography to explore living with pain from personal experiences with disability, contributing to
disability studies and emphasizing the societal need for greater accessibility and empathy. By sharing our journey
and the insightful contributions of our peers, we invite readers into an ongoing dialogue about the future of
autoethnographic research. Our goal is to foster a deeper appreciation of how personal experiences, integrated
with methodological rigor, significantly can enhance the relevance and impact of research findings, pushing for a
more inclusive and empathetic approach to understanding human complexities through (integrated) (mixed
methods) autoethnography.

Towards Integrated Mixed Methods Autoethnographic Approaches: A Dimensional and Poetic Journey

Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie — 2024-06-30

In the domain of research, where stories unfold,
There’s autoethnography, a tale to be told.
Traditionally, a qualitative approach, both personal and wide,
Weaving lives and meanings, a cultural guide.
Bochner and Ellis promoted the autoethnographic scene,
Where layers of consciousness seem to intervene.
Offering in their 2016 Evocative Autoethnography
A genre that links the self to society.
First-person prose, in varied forms it appears,
Short stories, poetry, sparking emotions and tears.
Novels and essays, with photographs to tell,
Autoethnographic tales in ways that compel.
In this present article, with hearts bold and true,
Tony Onwuegbuzie, Sandra Abrams, and Madeline Abrams, too,
Alongside Anna CohenMiller and Anthony Bambrola, they stand,
Reframing autoethnography, mapping out new land.
Autoethnography, a call for methods combined,
By these scholars’ efforts, a new frame outlined.
Connecting the personal to the wide scopes,
Of social, cultural, and political tropes.

Ten dimensions identified in their expansive span,
Tony, Sandra, Madeline, Anna, and Anthony began
An integrated, integrative, integral dance.
Autoethnography’s reborn, given a new chance.
At the heart of an autoethnographic quest,
A radical middle is where researchers should invest,
This means embracing an emtic view,
With critical dialectical pluralism being what they pursue.
In this radical middle, integrated methods intertwine,
Meta-methods combine, creating a sign,
Different designs, each with its own tone,
Collaborative minds, in harmony, do hone.
Balanced contribution between participant and investigator,
Iterative pathways, each team member, an innovator,
Narratives woven, deeply entwined,
Semi-personalized tales, rich stories combined.
So, let us explore, with minds open wide,
Autoethnography’s depths, where meaning making abides.
With Tony, Sandra, Madeline, Anna, and Antho
On this rich tapestry, where science meets art.

Fostering Innovation in Integrated Mixed Methods Autoethnography: The Role of Critical Dialectical Pluralism and the Radical Middle

Anthony J Onwuegbuzie — 2024-06-30

In this reflective article, we—Tony and Sandra—delve into our personal and collaborative journey exploring the
integration of critical dialectical pluralism (CDP) with Tony’s call for of mixed methods researchers to move
towards the radical middle, a journey that has led us to develop what we now refer to as integrated mixed methods
autoethnography. From its inception as CDP 1.0 through to its evolved, more enriched form as CDP 2.0, we have
witnessed and nurtured the growth of a methodology that not only champions rigorous research practices, but also
deeply embeds the values of social justice, inclusion, diversity, equity, and social responsibility—elements that
we collectively identify as the SIDES of CDP 2.0. This evolution reflects a personal and professional alignment
with the radical middle—a term I (Tony) have coined to describe a philosophy that embraces a dynamic and fluid
integration of qualitative and quantitative research approaches. This philosophy enriches research outcomes and
amplifies their impact on society. The radical middle’s ethos encourages a seamless interplay of methodologies,
which is crucial for capturing the intricate textures of personal and cultural narratives within the framework of
integrated mixed methods autoethnography. Our narrative here underscores how CDP fosters a participatory
research environment wherein diverse methodological and philosophical approaches are interwoven (i.e., 1 + 1 =
1 integration) rather than merely placed side by side (i.e., 1 + 1 = 3 integration). This integration allows for a
profound engagement with complex social phenomena, especially through the autoethnographic lens that
prioritizes personal narratives entangled with broader cultural and societal frameworks. By advocating for what
we term as third space of methodological integration, the amalgamation of CDP and the radical middle cultivates
a unique and transformative research milieu. This environment not only is methodologically sound, but also is
ethically committed to social transformation. Such a framework deepens and broadens the scope of our research
findings and also ensures that the research process, itself, actively contributes to positive societal change.
Therefore, this philosophy stands as a pivotal meta-framework for future studies that employ integrated mixed
methods autoethnography, pushing the boundaries of traditional research to include comprehensive,
transformative approaches that resonate deeply with both researchers and participants alike

The Role of Integrated Mixed Methods Autoethnography in Design-Based Research

Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie — 2024-06-30

As we (Tony and Sandra) immerse ourselves in the dynamic world of educational research methodologies, the
concept of design-based research (DBR) captures our attention and our imagination. DBR is not merely a
methodology; it is a collaborative journey that draws us—alongside fellow researchers, educators, learners, and
the broader community—into a shared quest for innovation in education, instructional technology, and the
learning sciences. As we engage with DBR, we are captivated by its foundational premise: the collaborative fusion
of minds—educators, learners, parents, and other stakeholders—each bringing their unique perspectives to bear
on the complex and complicated educational challenges that dwell within the confines of our classrooms,
communities, and beyond (Onwuegbuzie et al., 2023a). It is a methodology that is not only used to address
research questions of interest, but also to foster a culture of co-investigation, co-creation, co-ideation, coreflection, and, most importantly, co-decision making aimed at enhancing practice and generating actionable
insights. We are particularly intrigued by the metaphorical dance between DBR and mixed methods research
(MMR), coined by Onwuegbuzie et al. (2023b) as MM-DBR, which resonates deeply with our own research
ethos. It is an approach that promises a more holistic understanding, integrating numerical precision with narrative
complexity. Yet, as we explored the broad landscape of literature, guided by the meticulous review of research by
Onwuegbuzie et al. (2023a), a striking observation emerged: only a handful of works, 68 to be precise, from the
vast expanse of time stretching from January 1, 1960, to May 31, 2022, have involved the conduct of MM-DBR.
These studies, predominantly emerging in the last decade, signal a growing interest, yet underscore a line of
research ripe for exploration. In our methodological journey, we uncovered a curious gap: not a single study has
involved either the integration of MM-DBR and autoethnography, or the integration of MM-DBR and mixed
methods (MM) autoethnography—a fusion that we have coined integrated mixed methods autoethnographic
design-based research (IMMA-DBR). Our narrative delves into this uncharted territory, illuminating the
intersection of DBR and autoethnography through the lens of integrated mixed methods research. Here, we
explore their reciprocal roles—how autoethnography enriches DBR and vice versa. Through our methodological
proposition, we advocate for a holistic research paradigm—one that integrates the complex tapestry of human
experience with empirical inquiry to generate empathetic, nuanced understandings and dynamic educational
transformations—yielding a vast yet uncharted territory. We invite fellow researchers and practitioners alike to
navigate the intricate interplay between the personal and the empirical, crafting research that is reflective and
rigorous as well as deeply attuned to the complexities of educational ecosystems. Through IMMA-DBR, we
envision a future wherein educational research not only addresses the theoretical and practical, but also embraces
the profoundly personal, bridging gaps to foster a more empathetic, inclusive, and effective educational landscape

A Mixed Methods Autoethnographic Theater: Extending Pedagogy and Research Through the Development of a Sámi Land Acknowledgment

Anna CohenMiller — 2024-06-30

Drawing forward stories are ways to address sensitive topics and become willing to be vulnerable to share with
others. Methodologically being able to critically self-reflect and find those transformative stories offers a means
to recognize our humanness in a global world (CohenMiller, 2024). As Arthur Bochner and Carolyn Ellis (2016)
emphasize, in evocative autoethnography, there is a need to pull in the reader to the moment, to dramatize our
work. In this article, the three of us incorporate the novel mixed methods autoethnography, weaving together
evocative approaches and dramaturgy (Saldańa, 2003) around the topic of developing a Sámi land
acknowledgment in a higher education context. We recognize the ways in which arts-based research (Leavy,
2020), including autoethnography, can stand on its own. And echoing Tony Onwuegbuzie’s (2023) poetic inquiry
of mixed methods research, in 1+1=1, we offer the article as a standalone piece, a theatric work of seven acts
integrating the 10 dimensions of mixed methods autoethnography (Onwuegbuzie et al., 2024).

An Integrated Mixed Methods Autoethnography of Pain

Madeline L. Abrams — 2024-06-30

This integrated mixed methods autoethnographic research focuses on a personal journey with physical and
emotional pain. Initial data from an ongoing investigation highlight how the integrated mixed methods approach,
which involves visualizing, quantitizing, and qualitizing personal experiences, further enriches the data analysis,
findings, and discussion. Furthermore, this type of autoethnography provides space for people with short- and
long-term injuries to share their experiences, creating an opening for voices of people who often feel
disempowered.