Integration Strategies in Mixed Methods: A theortical stuy

Mixed methods approach integrates qualitative with quantitative approaches can overcome the imperfections of one of them and it can give a wide range of opportunities to investigate the research problem rather than using one method. Mixed methods can be a third methodology approach that rejects forced choices between positivism/post-positivism and constructivism with regard to methods, logic, and epistemology. It has become a methodology enabling research by collecting and analysing both qualitative and quantitative in same study. One of the most justification for using mixed methods in social research is that the mixed methods give a researcher the opportunity to breadth and depth the analysis or investigation. Methods can produce credibility findings because these findings are achieved from different sources; thus, it can raise its acceptance among the audience. To achieve its goal, it needs a transparency process on linking qualitative and quantitative components, namely integration. This concept represents a core element in complementary between qualitative and quantitative components in mixed methods. is a unique attribute in mixed methods studies. It provides justification for inference findings, their relationship, and the explanation logically. Despite the importance of the role of integration in mixed methods, researchers' perspectives in social science towards integration strategies vary and sometimes integration is absent in their studies. Thus, this paper highlights the importance of planning for the integration stage in mixed methods research and clarifies how researchers achieve it. Three main levels discussed in this paper: integration in research design level, integration in data collection and analysis, and integration in interpretation and reporting. This article aimed to provide practical guidance for integrating elements in mixed methods research to enhance the quality of mixed methods studies in the field of social and educational sciences.