Ralph Hall MA PhD AM is an Emeritus Professor in the School of Social Sciences at the University of New South Wales, Sydney Australia. He has taught research methods to both undergraduate and graduate students in the social science and policy program in the School since 1990. His research interests include the role of peer mentoring in facilitating incoming students adjustment to academic study, the work-study experience of students in addition to research designs in social research with particular reference to mixed-methods. He has co-edited one book with Lynn Scott, namely Global Issues: Perspectives on General Studies (MacMillan, 1987) and authored two, namely Impacts: Contemporary Issues and Global Problems with Roger Bell(MacMillan, 1996) and Applied Social Research: Planning, Designing and Conducting Real World Research. (Palgrave MacMillan, 2008). In 2019 he was awarded an AM (Member of the Order of Australia) for services to education as an academic and to the community.
This book provides a straightforward, student-focused introduction to doing mixed methods research, covering everything from why and when mixed methods is appropriate, as well as how to use qualitative and quantitative methods in tandem. Assuming no prior research methods knowledge, it introduces mixed methods alongside basic research theory and principles, fully integrating mixed methods into the research methods foundation. With clearly defined key terms and a structure that maps to the way students work on their projects, it progresses at a gradual pace suitable for mixed methods beginners. Offering encouragement and tips for success throughout the full research process, Hall helps students confidently: - Explain mixed methods paradigms and methodologies - Define and choose a research approach - Combine methods effectively - Sample, collect, and analyze primary and secondary data - Communicate and write up results. Packed with tables, figures, and boxes that distill key concepts into retainable visuals, this book is the perfect companion to support students on their mixed methods projects.
