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Cited by 367

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Methodological Implications of Critical Realism for Mixed-Methods Research1

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Zachariadis, Markos, Scott, Susan, Barrett, Michael·2013·MIS Quarterly
DOI 10.25300/misq/2013/37.3.09
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Abstract

Building on recent developments in mixed methods, we discuss the methodological implications of critical realism and explore how these can guide dynamic mixed-methods research design in information systems. Specifically, we examine the core ontological assumptions of CR in order to gain some perspective on key epistemological issues such as causation and validity, and illustrate how these shape our logic of inference in the research process through what is known as retroduction. We demonstrate the value of a CR-led mixed-methods research approach by drawing on a study that examines the impact of ICT adoption in the financial services sector. In doing so, we provide insight into the interplay between qualitative and quantitative methods and the particular value of applying mixed methods guided by CR methodological principles. Our positioning of demi-regularities within the process of retroduction contributes a distinctive development in this regard. We argue that such a research design enables us to better address issues of validity and the development of more robust meta-inferences.

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Metadata

Authors
Zachariadis, M., Scott, S., & Barrett, M.
Venue
MIS Quarterly
Publisher
MIS Quarterly
Published
2013-09-01
Volume
37
Issue
3
Pages
855-879
ISSN
  • 0276-7783 (ISSN-L)
  • 2162-9730
DOI
10.25300/misq/2013/37.3.09
OpenAlex
W2134576578
Cited by
367
References
6
FWCI
72.13
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
green

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Zachariadis, M., Scott, S., & Barrett, M. (2013). Methodological Implications of Critical Realism for Mixed-Methods Research1. MIS Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.25300/misq/2013/37.3.09

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