A Model Incorporating the Rationale and Purpose for Conducting Mixed-Methods Research in Special Education and Beyond

Abstract

This article provides a typology ofreasons for conducting m i x ed - m et h ods re se a rch in spe cial edu c a ti o n .The mixed methods research process is described along with the role ofthe rationale and purpose ofstudy.The reasons given in the literature for utilizing mixed-methods research are explicated,and the limitations ofthese reason frameworks are identified.We build on these frameworks by providing a comprehensive list of reasons for conducting mixed-methods research.The reasons provided in our model are operationalized in the context ofspecial education and,thus,complement the goals ofspecial education re se a rch ers .Fi n a lly,we pre sent a fou r- d i m en s i o n a l Rationale and Purpose (RAP) model demonstrating how investigations can be designed according to the rationale for using mixed methods,purpose ofmixing,stage ofstudy where mixing occurs,and emphasis ofapproach derived from the research question(s).