Article

The purpose of this paper is to provide an argument for the place of mixed
methods research across practice settings as an effective means of supporting
evidence-based practice in physiotherapy. Physiotherapy practitioners use both
qualitative and quantitative methods throughout the process of patient care-from
history taking, assessment, and intervention to evaluation of outcomes. Research
on practice paradigms demonstrates the importance of mixing qualitative and
quantitative methods to achieve 'expert practice' that is concerned with
optimizing outcomes and incorporating patient beliefs and values. Research
paradigms that relate to this model of practice would integrate qualitative and
quantitative types of knowledge and inquiry, while maintaining a prioritized
focus on patient outcomes. Pragmatism is an emerging research paradigm where
practical consequences and the effects of concepts and behaviors are vital
components of meaning and truth. This research paradigm supports the simultaneous
use of qualitative and quantitative methods of inquiry to generate evidence to
support best practice. This paper demonstrates that mixed methods research with a
pragmatist view provides evidence that embraces and addresses the multiple
practice concerns of practitioners better than either qualitative or quantitative
research approaches in isolation.

Langue : ANGLAIS