Mixed methods research: An opportunity to improve our studies and our research skills

Mixed methods research is the combination and integration of qualitative and quantitative methods in the same study.Although researchers have combined qualitative and quantitative data for many years, current conceptualizations of mixed methods research did not emerge until the 1980s.Mixed methods research has developed rapidly in these last few years, emerging as a research methodology with a recognized name and distinct identity (Denscombe, 2008), especially in some fields such as education, health sciences, psychology and sociology.In these fields, this methodological approach is recognized as the third methodological movement, along with qualitative research and quantitative research (Johnson & Onwuegbuzie, 2004; Tashakkori & Teddlie, 2003).This distinctiveness is reflected in the publication of many books focused on mixed methods, in a methodological journal (Journal of Mixed Methods Research, Sage) and in a scientific association (Mixed Methods International Research Association, http://mmira.wildapricot.org/).An important aspect regarding mixed methods research is why to use this methodological approach.The use of mixed methods research in business studies may play an important role in the development of our field because results obtained from different methods have the potential to enrich our understanding of business problems and questions.In this regard, mixed methods research may add value and contribute to advance our research topics in the business fields (Molina-Azorin,