Mapping Mixed Methods Research in Library and Information Science Journals in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2004 – 2008

Abstract

This article explores the use of mixed methods research (MMR) in articles published in library and information science (LIS) journals in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) from 2004 to 2008. Mixed methods research entails using multiple observers, theories, methods, and data sources in a single study, thereby enabling the different methods to beneficially corroborate or validate one another. The MMR framework provided in the methodological literature was used to determine how this method was practised within the LIS scientific community in SSA. Six hundred and eighty five articles published in nine peer-reviewed LIS journals in SAA were analysed. The study found out that most of the articles used only survey designs or historical research methods. Only 48 out of the 685 articles (seven per cent) used MMR approaches, which is clearly limited and inadequate. The study recommends a paradigm shift and a change in the mindset of LIS researchers in SSA in order to be able to exploit the advantages offered by MMR.