Do we have the right toolbox? A process of mixed methods: a research case from an urban transformation site in Istanbul

Abstract

Since 2000, cities have been undergoing rapid and forced transformations initiated both by real estate markets and governments. Within the context of such developments, urban researchers often focus on sites and communities or specific spatial-classes. Fast-changing and heterogeneous conditions have called attention to the proper usage of research methods. Both from a technical and ethical perspective, obtaining quantitative and qualitative data does not necessarily provide the requisite knowledge and information in such cases. This paper aims to question the urban research methodologies that have been employed in contested urban spaces and heterogeneous spatial urban sites by asking: How can quantitative and qualitative data be proven? How can data capturing the intentions of local actors be determined? How and when should mixed-research methods be used to address specific urban situational conditions? What is the actual research process like? What are the failures or outcomes of current research methodologies? This paper will present the research experiences from a specific site of Istanbul, Kathane. The argument of this paper is that several qualitative research tools can be invented or used; however, the situational urban condition is the phenomenon to which tools should be adapted, or they should be invented according to the contextual conditions. The first half of the paper discusses a mixed-methods approach and then takes up the issue of notion of changing urban conditions. The second half covers the empirical basis and concludes with a synthesis of the ideas discussed.