Writing and publishing mixed methods research in the social sciences: Editorial introduction to the mixed methods section of BMS

Abstract

Over the past fifteen years, there has been significant growth in social science publications on mixed methods research, both in France and internationally. While the use of mixed methods is not new, we are currently witnessing a revival of debates around how qualitative and quantitative approaches are combined and articulated – and, more importantly, a growing body of theoretical reflection on so-called “mixed” research strategies. This editorial introduces the launch of the Mixed Methods section of the BMS. After quickly reviewing the evolution of mixed methods and the challenges they pose for 21st-century social sciences, this text argues for the relevance of this new section. It highlights the need to further address the “integration problems”, to propose alternative frameworks for classifying mixed research strategies, and, more broadly, to promote both methodological pluralism and rigor in research design within the social sciences.