This course offers an in-depth exploration of mixed-methods research (MMR) to better understand the complexity of language, communication, and learning. Students will discover how to meaningfully combine qualitative and quantitative approaches through real data collection and analysis in areas like classroom interaction or linguistic landscapes. With a dynamic blend of online modules, in-person workshops, and a hands-on group project, participants will gain both theoretical insight and practical experience in designing impactful MMR studies.

Mixed-methods research (MMR) has emerged as a valuable approach for capturing the complexity and dynamics of language usage as well as its implications for communication and learning, identity and cognition. In addition to incorporating various data collection instruments, such as performance assessments, questionnaires, observations and interviews, it is essential to design a research project that explicitly defines how qualitative and quantitative data are integrated at both the conceptual and methodological levels.

Consequently, the course will address the ontological and epistemological underpinnings of integrating qualitative and quantitative methods in research areas such as linguistic landscapes, classroom interaction, emotions in learning, etc. Students will be introduced to various mixed-methods research designs as well as methods to collect and analyze natural language data.

Through an intensive mix of online preparatory modules and readings, in-person workshops, and a collaborative research project, participants will critically examine how combining research paradigms can produce richer, more nuanced understandings of linguistic phenomena. The practical application of the concepts and techniques will be facilitated through the development and implementation of a small-scale mixed-methods research project in reapplication of already existing empirical studies.

Learning outcome

  • Understand and describe the ontological and epistemological foundations of mixed-methods research, and explain their implications for conceptual, theoretical, and practical frameworks in the selected areas of linguistic research.
  • Evaluate the appropriateness of different MMR designs for specific research questions and identify effective strategies for integrating quantitative and qualitative data.
  • Design and conduct a mixed-methods reapplication study that incorporates key theoretical and practical components of MMR.
  • Interpret mixed-methods datasets to draw meta-inferences and compare findings from different sources, identifying patterns or inconsistencies related to complex linguistic phenomena.

Workload and assessment

The estimated workload for this course is approximately 125 hours, including both individual preparation and group work.

Assessment is based on the following elements:

  • Submission of a written report on the collaborative research project (group work)
  • Oral presentation of the collaborative research project (group work)
  • Active participation in both online modules and on-site sessions
  • Completion of preparatory readings and exercises

Participants will receive a grade.

Academic and admin contacts

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