How to address discrepancies in qualitative and quantitative research findings?

Together as mixed methods, quantitative and qualitative research findings enrich the study. Quantitative data show the relationship between variables. Qualitative findings reveal insights. Consider 3 issues to address discrepancies:

1. What’s the ‘expected’ result? Even if the topic is new, you must have formed some theory in study design. You might need to broaden the theory to develop a rationale for what you see now, or re-analyze to resolve discrepancy.
2. Was quantitative-qualitative integration done well (or at all)? A survey is usually preceded by qualitative research to uncover issues and improve questions. Best practice is to select participants based on survey respondent profile.
3. Should I conduct further analysis or further research? Having qualitative participants answer survey and compare with quant results misses the point: how they arrive at answer and the dynamics.

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