The Myth of Multiple Methods

This paper addresses issues surrounding the combining of quantitative and qualitative methods in a single research design. Reference is made to attempts by information systems researchers to combine research methods. It is argued that the four paradigm model of Burrell and Morgan has encouraged researchers to seek cross-paradigmatic research designs. Argument is offered that cross-paradigmatic research is unsound. A different paradigm framework is introduced and used to support a focus on the nature of the phenomenon to be investigated and the questions to be answered rather than the method to be used.

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