Fostering Innovation in Integrated Mixed Methods Autoethnography: The Role of Critical Dialectical Pluralism and the Radical Middle

In this reflective article, we—Tony and Sandra—delve into our personal and collaborative journey exploring theintegration of critical dialectical pluralism (CDP) with Tony's call for of mixed methods researchers to movetowards the radical middle, a journey that has led us to develop what we now refer to as integrated mixed methodsautoethnography. From its inception as CDP 1.0 through to its evolved, more enriched form as CDP 2.0, we havewitnessed and nurtured the growth of a methodology that not only champions rigorous research practices, but alsodeeply embeds the values of social justice, inclusion, diversity, equity, and social responsibility—elements thatwe collectively identify as the SIDES of CDP 2.0. This evolution reflects a personal and professional alignmentwith the radical middle—a term I (Tony) have coined to describe a philosophy that embraces a dynamic and fluidintegration of qualitative and quantitative research approaches. This philosophy enriches research outcomes andamplifies their impact on society. The radical middle's ethos encourages a seamless interplay of methodologies,which is crucial for capturing the intricate textures of personal and cultural narratives within the framework ofintegrated mixed methods autoethnography. Our narrative here underscores how CDP fosters a participatoryresearch environment wherein diverse methodological and philosophical approaches are interwoven (i.e., 1 + 1 =1 integration) rather than merely placed side by side (i.e., 1 + 1 = 3 integration). This integration allows for aprofound engagement with complex social phenomena, especially through the autoethnographic lens thatprioritizes personal narratives entangled with broader cultural and societal frameworks. By advocating for whatwe term as third space of methodological integration, the amalgamation of CDP and the radical middle cultivatesa unique and transformative research milieu. This environment not only is methodologically sound, but also isethically committed to social transformation. Such a framework deepens and broadens the scope of our researchfindings and also ensures that the research process, itself, actively contributes to positive societal change.Therefore, this philosophy stands as a pivotal meta-framework for future studies that employ integrated mixedmethods autoethnography, pushing the boundaries of traditional research to include comprehensive,transformative approaches that resonate deeply with both researchers and participants alike