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Media and Digital Technologies for Mixed Methods Research in Public Health Emergencies Such as COVID-19: Lessons Learned From Using Interactive Radio–SMS for Social Research in Somalia

Published version
Peer-reviewed

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Authors

Abreu Lopes, Claudia 
Ibrahim, Naima Abdi 
Srinivasan, Sharath 

Abstract

Radio shows which invite audience participation via short message service (SMS)—interactive radio–SMS—can be designed as a mixed methods approach for applied social research during COVID-19 and other crises in low and middle income countries. In the aftermath of a cholera outbreak in Somalia, we illustrate how this method provides social insights that would have been missed if a purely qualitative or quantitative approach were used. We then examine the strengths and limitations associated with interactive radio–SMS through an evaluation using a multimethod comparison. Our research contributes an application of a mixed methods approach which addresses a specific challenge raised by COVID-19, namely utilizing media and digital technologies for social research in low and middle income countries.

Description

Keywords

Empirical Research, mixed methods, interactive radio, digital technology, evaluation, public health

Journal Title

Journal of Mixed Methods Research

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

1558-6898
1558-6901

Volume Title

15

Publisher

SAGE Publications
Sponsorship
Department for International Development (206015/Z/16/Z)
Wellcome Trust (206015/Z/16/Z)