Which method is central to Pragmatism?

Pragmatism as a philosophical approach to research emphasizes the practical application of ideas and solutions to real-world problems, rather than adhering strictly to a specific method or ideology. The central tenet of pragmatism is that the value of concepts and methods should be judged based on their usefulness and applicability in practical situations.

Mixing qualitative and quantitative methods aligns perfectly with this pragmatist mindset. By combining these approaches, researchers can leverage the strengths of both to gather comprehensive insights. Qualitative methods allow for deep exploration of participants' perspectives, while quantitative methods provide measurable data and statistical analysis. This integrative technique enables researchers to address complex issues more effectively and draw nuanced conclusions that are both empirically grounded and contextually rich.

In contrast, conducting pure qualitative studies, focusing solely on problem theory, or emphasizing traditional research models can limit the researcher's ability to connect insights with practical applications. These alternatives may overlook valuable data or insights that could emerge from a more versatile approach, which pragmatism actively encourages. Each method's adaptability and responsiveness to the research question at hand is what makes mixing qualitative and quantitative methods so central to the pragmatist approach.