Teaching mixed methods using an open-space learning approach

This chapter defines mixed methods and describes some of the challenges of teaching mixed methods research. The authors introduce the idea of the threshold concept as it relates to mixed methods teaching. For example, overcoming barriers related to learners/researchers’ established epistemologies, and confronting the distinction between synthesis and summary. They detail the techniques they have used to overcome these challenges and reflect on experiences of teaching mixed methods using Monk’s open-space learning approach (OSL), and they consider OSL characterisations of space: transgressive, transitional, transcendent, transrational, transactional, transdisciplinary. The chapter concludes by describing the possibilities for using OSL to overcome threshold concepts in wider teaching practice.