A Plural Approach to Sequence Analysis Using Complementary Perspectives: A Case Study of Fencing Behaviors from a Mixed Methods Perspective

This study aims to highlight different perspectives of sequentiality, each involving different analytical techniques, and from a mixed methods perspective. Mixed methods studies have been defined by several authors as studies aiming to integrate qualitative and quantitative elements. On the one hand, from a “classic” approach and using a set of simulated data, we examine the merits of calculating the distance between sequences as a measure of their similarity or dissimilarity. On the other hand, we explore three approaches to sequence analysis—lag sequential analysis, polar coordinate analysis, and T-pattern detection—intending to analyze the degree to which their results converge. Following a discussion of these techniques, we present an empirical case study from the field of sports science. In this study, we analyze a fencing competition in the final stages of a World Fencing Championship as a particular case of systematic observation. Considering the strong methodological component of this study, we focus on the first step of diachrony—intrasessional analysis—although our goal is to extend our analyses to include intersessional diachrony. Using a specific observational instrument, we created a dataset reflecting the sequences of events that, following the necessary data quality controls, was analyzed using lag sequential analysis, polar coordinate analysis, and T-pattern detection. The results were then combined and analyzed for similarities and dissimilarities. Finally, drawing from the results of this case study, we propose a procedure for harnessing the potential and guarantees offered by sequence analysis to bring together individual cases with similar structures and sequences to build a robust multiple-case study.