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Communities of Practice

A Research Paradigm for the Mixed Methods Approach

De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom, md{at}dmu.ac.uk

The mixed methods approach has emerged as a ``third paradigm'' for social research. It has developed a platform of ideas and practices that are credible and distinctive and that mark the approach out as a viable alternative to quantitative and qualitative paradigms. However, there are also a number of variations and inconsistencies within the mixed methods approach that should not be ignored. This article argues the need for a vision of research paradigm that accommodates such variations and inconsistencies. It is argued that the use of ``communities of practice'' as the basis for such a research paradigm is (a) consistent with the pragmatist underpinnings of the mixed methods approach, (b) accommodates a level of diversity, and (c) has good potential for understanding the methodological choices made by those conducting mixed methods research.

Key Words: communities of practice • mixed methods • pragmatism • research paradigm

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