Practical Applications of Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches in Interdisciplinary Sciences: A New Perspective

Discussions regarding the choice of quantitative and qualitative methods for addressing research questions within the intra-individual study design are well established. However, little discussion has focused on how researchers look beyond research designs in a single layer and context. This article describes a hybrid research framework using both qualitative and quantitative methods at four different research levels in the highly interdisciplinary field of occupational science and occupational therapy. The aim is to illustrate that multiple research methods have broad research applications in a large methodological framework, beyond research designs that focus on methods within a single study. This article discusses an interdisciplinary approach to research design and knowledge generation across research levels, which is essential for successful implementation of evidence-based practice. In interdisciplinary sciences, qualitative and quantitative methods work best when maximizing the capacity to bridge science and practice. Researchers need to apply appropriate qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches to suit the specific needs at various levels of the science-practice interface.