“Talking table” as a data integration strategy in mixed methods research

ABSTRACT

Objective  to report the use of a talking table as a data analysis and integration strategy in a mixed approach study.

Method  this is a report on the use of a methodological strategy for data integration and analysis in mixed methods research. Data from an analytical longitudinal study that followed 151 preterm infants in the first year of life are presented. The study addressed aspects of the health conditions of this population and integrated quantitative data, collected through an instrument to assess health conditions and qualitative data from a semi-structured interview.

Results  data integration in mixed studies is a methodological requirement that requires researchers to use strategies that enable and facilitate this analytical process. A talking table, through the visual integration of quantitative data expressed in tables and their analytical convergences and divergences with qualitative statements, favors integrated reading and interpretation. Conclusion and implications for practice: a talking table is considered an analytical tool for quantitative and qualitative data integration, which contribute to developing meta-inferences in mixed methods research.