Participatory action research, mixed methods, and research teams: learning from philosophically juxtaposed methodologies for optimal research outcomes

• DOI: 10.1186/s12874-018-0636-1
• Publication Date: 2018-12-12T06:43:13Z
• Authors: Marguerite C. Sen...; Laura K. McCosker; Alison Brodie; Melissa Hill; Phil Crane
• Keywords: Multimethodology; Action Research; Research Design

Workplace health interventions incorporating qualitative and quantitative components (mixed methods) within a Participatory Action Research approach can increase understanding of contextual issues ensuring realistic which influence behaviour. Mixed methods research teams, however, face variety challenges at the methodological expertise levels when designing actions interventions. Addressing these improve team's functionality lead to higher quality outcomes. In this paper we reflect on data collection, implementation analysis phases mixed workplace promotion project discuss arose our multidisciplinary team. This used address workers' sun safety behaviours in 14 outdoor workplaces Queensland, Australia, elucidate why certain measures succeeded (or failed) worker management level. The integrated such as policy interviews, with range – including surveys, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure measurement, cost analyses. team found integration analyses process be challenging cause tensions. had negative impact reporting results, complexity was not truly understood by Once all researchers recognised would equally beneficial process, bias overcome degree could work cooperatively. may allow discuss, learn from each other, resulting broadened perspectives beyond scope any single methodology. However, cohesive supportive teams take constant adjustment under approach, knowledge is gained shared. It important are cognisant of, from, potential tensions due juxtaposed philosophies, methodologies experiences, if function efficiently positive outcomes achieved.