The specificity of observational studies in physical activity and sports sciences: moving forward in mixed methods research and proposals for achieving quantitative and qualitative symmetry
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Date
2017
Authors
Anguera, M. Teresa
Camerino Foguet, Oleguer
Castañer Balcells, Marta
Sánchez-Algarra, Pedro
Onwuegbuzie, Anthony J.
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Abstract
Mixed methods studies are been increasingly applied to a diversity of fields. In this
paper, we discuss the growing use—and enormous potential—of mixed methods
research in the field of sport and physical activity. A second aim is to contribute to
strengthening the characteristics ofmixedmethods research by showing how systematic
observation offers rigor within a flexible framework that can be applied to a wide range
of situations. Observational methodology is characterized by high scientific rigor and
flexibility throughout its different stages and allows the objective study of spontaneous
behavior in natural settings, with no external influence. Mixed methods researchers
need to take bold yet thoughtful decisions regarding both substantive and procedural
issues. We present three fundamental and complementary ideas to guide researchers
in this respect: we show why studies of sport and physical activity that use a mixed
methods research approach should be included in the field of mixed methods research,
we highlight the numerous possibilities offered by observational methodology in this field
through the transformation of descriptive data into quantifiable code matrices, and we
discuss possible solutions for achieving true integration of qualitative and quantitative
findings.
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Frontiers in Psychology, 2017, vol. 8, núm. 2196, p.1-13