Commentary: Mixed Methods Research in School Psychology

• Published in: School psychology 2023-11, Vol.38 (6), p.418-419
• Main Author: Nastasi, Bonnie Kaul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Experimentation; Human; Humans; Medical research; Mixed Methods Research; Practice; Psychology; Psychology, Educational; Qualitative Research; School Psychology; Schools
• ISSN: 2578-4218; 2578-4226
• DOI: 10.1037/spq0000608

This commentary argues that mixed methods research provides an opportunity to advance research and practice in school psychology. This commentary summarizes the four articles featured in the special issue, including identifying fundamental concepts relevant to mixed methods research and common themes that cut across these publications. The commentary also draws readers attention to future directions and the need to advance mixed method and qualitative research in several domains. This includes using more complex mixed methods designs that reflect stronger integration of strands throughout the research process along with leveraging qualitative methods that represent participant views and experiences more fully. In addition, future studies would also benefit from the integration of more complex designs that allow for quantitative and qualitative strands to be joined across the life of a research study, including the use of complex joint displays which can inform theory and practice. Impact and Implications This article provides commentary on the four articles in this special issue. The article highlights the burgeoning use of mixed methods in school psychology research and provides suggestions for future directions.