Mixed methods refers to the use of both quantitative (numerical data and statistical analysis) and qualitative (non-numerical data such as interviews and observations) research methods as part of a single research study to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the research question. This approach recognises that different methods have different strengths and limitations and that combining them can offer richer insights than relying on a single method alone. For example, a researcher might use quantitative surveys to gather data on the prevalence of a certain attitude in a population and then conduct qualitative interviews to explore the underlying reasons and experiences related to that attitude in more depth. Mixed methods research can enhance the validity and reliability of findings by triangulating data from different sources and providing a more holistic view of the phenomenon under investigation.