Mixed Methods Research in Accounting

Qualitative Research in Accounting and Management, Vol. 8, pp. 5-21, 2011

Posted: 9 May 2011

See all articles by Jennifer Grafton

Jennifer Grafton

The University of Melbourne

Anne M. Lillis

University of Melbourne

Habib Mahama

Qatar University

Date Written: May 5, 2011

Abstract

Purpose: In this paper we set the scene for this special issue by synthesising the vast array of literature on mixed methods research, to examine what constitutes mixed methods research, and the associated strengths and risks attributed to this approach.

Design/Methodology/Approach: This paper takes the form of a literature review. We draw on extensive methods research from a diverse range of social science disciplines to identify and explore key definitions, opportunities and risks in mixed methods studies. We review a number of accounting studies that adopt mixed methods research approaches. This allows us to analyse variance in how mixed methods research is conceptualised across these studies and evaluate the perceived strengths and limitations of specific mixed methods design choices.

Findings: We identify a range of opportunities and challenges in the conduct of mixed methods research and illustrate these by reference to both published studies and the other contributions to this special issue.

Originality/Value: With the exception of Modell (2005, 2009, 2010) there is sparse discussion of the application and potential of mixed methods research in the extant accounting literature.

Keywords: methods research, research methods, methodology

Suggested Citation

Grafton, Jennifer and Lillis, Anne and Mahama, Habib, Mixed Methods Research in Accounting (May 5, 2011). Qualitative Research in Accounting and Management, Vol. 8, pp. 5-21, 2011, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1832949

Jennifer Grafton (Contact Author)

The University of Melbourne ( email )

198 Berkeley Street
The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010
Australia

Anne Lillis

University of Melbourne ( email )

Victoria
Parkville, Victoria 3010
Australia

Habib Mahama

Qatar University ( email )

College of Business and Economics
Qatar University
Doha, 2713
Qatar
+97444037144 (Phone)
2713 (Fax)

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