Critical Appraisal of Mixed Methods Studies

Abstract

In several subdomains of the social, behavioral, health, and human sciences, research questions are increasingly answered through mixed methods studies, combining qualitative and quantitative evidence and research elements. Accordingly, the importance of including those primary mixed methods research articles in systematic reviews grows. It is generally known that the critical appraisal of articles is an essential step in the development of a methodologically sound review. This article provides an overview of the available critical appraisal frameworks developed to evaluate primary mixed methods research articles. In addition, we critically compare and evaluate these frameworks and the quality criteria they include.