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Chapter 4. Mixed methods research in ISLA

  • Masatoshi Sato
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Instructed Second Language Acquisition Research Methods
This chapter is in the book Instructed Second Language Acquisition Research Methods

Abstract

This chapter explores the potential of mixed methods research (MMR) for conducting robust ISLA research to understand complex second language (L2) learning phenomena in instructed settings. MMR provides researchers with a pragmatic framework to answer research questions by mixing quantitative and qualitative approaches during data collection, analysis, and integration. In this chapter, I will first discuss how MMR can counter ISLA’s unique methodological challenges by zeroing in on the importance of the relationship between research and practice. I will then examine the three core MMR designs proposed by Creswell and Plano Clark (2018): convergent, explanatory sequential, and exploratory sequential. As a key to successful MMR, I will focus on integration of quantitative and qualitative components in writing a manuscript for publication. In conclusion, I argue that a successful MMR ISLA study carefully balances internal and ecological validity to maintain its scientific rigor, while incorporating teachers’ and students’ voices and experiences into the study.

Abstract

This chapter explores the potential of mixed methods research (MMR) for conducting robust ISLA research to understand complex second language (L2) learning phenomena in instructed settings. MMR provides researchers with a pragmatic framework to answer research questions by mixing quantitative and qualitative approaches during data collection, analysis, and integration. In this chapter, I will first discuss how MMR can counter ISLA’s unique methodological challenges by zeroing in on the importance of the relationship between research and practice. I will then examine the three core MMR designs proposed by Creswell and Plano Clark (2018): convergent, explanatory sequential, and exploratory sequential. As a key to successful MMR, I will focus on integration of quantitative and qualitative components in writing a manuscript for publication. In conclusion, I argue that a successful MMR ISLA study carefully balances internal and ecological validity to maintain its scientific rigor, while incorporating teachers’ and students’ voices and experiences into the study.

Chapters in this book

  1. Prelim pages i
  2. Table of contents vii
  3. Acknowledgements ix
  4. Introduction to the volume xi
  5. List of contributors xix
  6. Section 1. Introduction
  7. Chapter 1. Getting started 3
  8. Section 2. Identifying your research approach
  9. Chapter 2. Quantitative research methods in ISLA 31
  10. Chapter 3. Qualitative ISLA research methodologies and methods 55
  11. Chapter 4. Mixed methods research in ISLA 79
  12. Chapter 5. Replication research in instructed SLA 103
  13. Section 3. ISLA research across methodological approaches
  14. Chapter 6. Unique considerations for ISLA research across approaches 125
  15. Section 4. Designing instructional interventions for specific skills & competencies
  16. Chapter 7. Pragmatics 149
  17. Chapter 8. Vocabulary 181
  18. Chapter 9. Grammar 207
  19. Chapter 10. Pronunciation 233
  20. Chapter 11. Listening 257
  21. Chapter 12. Reading 281
  22. Chapter 13. Writing 305
  23. Chapter 14. Speaking 329
  24. Section 5. Sharing your research
  25. Chapter 15. Contributing to the advancement of the field: 355
  26. Index 379
https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.3.04sat

Chapters in this book

  1. Prelim pages i
  2. Table of contents vii
  3. Acknowledgements ix
  4. Introduction to the volume xi
  5. List of contributors xix
  6. Section 1. Introduction
  7. Chapter 1. Getting started 3
  8. Section 2. Identifying your research approach
  9. Chapter 2. Quantitative research methods in ISLA 31
  10. Chapter 3. Qualitative ISLA research methodologies and methods 55
  11. Chapter 4. Mixed methods research in ISLA 79
  12. Chapter 5. Replication research in instructed SLA 103
  13. Section 3. ISLA research across methodological approaches
  14. Chapter 6. Unique considerations for ISLA research across approaches 125
  15. Section 4. Designing instructional interventions for specific skills & competencies
  16. Chapter 7. Pragmatics 149
  17. Chapter 8. Vocabulary 181
  18. Chapter 9. Grammar 207
  19. Chapter 10. Pronunciation 233
  20. Chapter 11. Listening 257
  21. Chapter 12. Reading 281
  22. Chapter 13. Writing 305
  23. Chapter 14. Speaking 329
  24. Section 5. Sharing your research
  25. Chapter 15. Contributing to the advancement of the field: 355
  26. Index 379
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