Determining a voice to use in writing about mixed methods research

Abstract

Education researchers conducting mixed methods research in cross-cultural contexts can be confronted with a number of binaries through which they need to weave their way. I am an example of an education researcher who has made serious considerations in undertaking a triangulation mixed methods research in a cross-cultural context. A key issue which has challenged me has been the determination of an appropriate voice in crafting the writing of my research report. Although authorities in mixed methods research suggest considering methodological underpinnings guiding the study and/or considering the audience the research targets in determining an appropriate voice to employ, it has not been that simple for me. Consequently, I have considered three key areas to assist me in determining the voice in writing my research report. These have been (1) the methodological underpinnings guiding my mixed methods research in a highly complex sociocultural context; (2) the sociocultural context of my target audience; (3) my social status as a female researcher from a matrilineal context and the strong influence of that culture. These highlight the importance for education researchers not only to consider the theoretical assumptions guiding the educational research and the target audience in determining the voice. Education researchers also need to consider the sociocultural dimension as well as values that they, as researchers, bring to research, particularly when conducting research in complex sociocultural contexts.