The use of mixed methodology in the study of the IT occupational culture

摘要

The use of sequential mixed methodology has not been very popular in the IS literature. In this paper, we present a short evaluation of the use of mixed methodology in information systems publications. We then present a summary of the characteristics of a mixed methodology approach. Finally, we present a research study as a sample of the use of sequential mixed methodology to study the adaptation of new comers to the culture of information technology occupations. The present study contributes to the understanding of the process of using mixed methodology in the field. In this study, the use of the initial qualitative dictation techniques and analysis supported the development of a more structured survey instrument making the study more consistent. This consistency adds precision to the findings as well as validity to the final quantitative survey that can be further improved but that still is a good starting point in the field. Mixed methodology is an effective methodology for the study of issues that have not been addressed before in the literature. The study of occupational culture as an example of mixed methodology indicates that adaptation to the culture influences occupational commitment in the information technology field.