Embedding the dialogic in mixed method approaches to theory development

ABSTRACT

Little attention has been paid to the processes that are involved in making sense of the role dissonance between sources of data has played in the development of theoretical insight. This methodologically oriented investigation considers an unusual set of case exemplars that used mixed methods and dialogic forms of mixing in ways that produced incremental or rupture theorizing. Six of seven used dialogic forms of mixing, including through visual displays, in ways that formatively advanced the analysis. Findings invite readers to consider the advantages of an open and creative approach to mixed methods that embrace the challenges presented by unexpected findings.