Exam 17: Mixed Methods

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One communication issue that can be used to demonstrate the five steps of a mixed-method study is the impact of social media on interpersonal communication.

Step 1: Problem Identification
The first step in a mixed-method study is to identify the problem or issue to be studied. In this case, the problem is the impact of social media on interpersonal communication. This issue is relevant in today's society as social media platforms have become a primary mode of communication for many people, potentially affecting face-to-face interactions.

Step 2: Qualitative Research
The next step is to conduct qualitative research to gain an in-depth understanding of the issue. This could involve interviews or focus groups with individuals who use social media and have experienced changes in their interpersonal communication as a result. Qualitative research can provide insights into the specific ways in which social media has impacted communication patterns and relationships.

Step 3: Quantitative Research
After gathering qualitative data, the next step is to conduct quantitative research to measure the extent of the issue. This could involve surveys or questionnaires distributed to a larger sample of individuals to gather statistical data on the frequency and nature of social media use, as well as its impact on their interpersonal communication.

Step 4: Data Integration
The fourth step is to integrate the qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. By comparing and contrasting the findings from both types of research, researchers can identify patterns and relationships that may not have been apparent from one method alone.

Step 5: Interpretation and Conclusion
The final step is to interpret the integrated data and draw conclusions about the impact of social media on interpersonal communication. Researchers can identify key findings, implications for communication theory and practice, and potential areas for further research. This step allows for a comprehensive understanding of the issue and its broader significance.

In conclusion, a mixed-method study of the impact of social media on interpersonal communication would involve problem identification, qualitative and quantitative research, data integration, and interpretation and conclusion. This approach allows for a thorough and nuanced exploration of the communication issue, providing valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners.