An Overview of Integral Research:
A mixed-methods framework for methodological pluralism
In this article I present an overview of the emerging field of integral research (IR) as based on Ken Wilber’s integral theory. Since 2005 dozens of graduate students and professionals have been using the frameworks and principles of IR to conduct their own mixed methods projects. In 2008 two special issues of the Journal of Integral Theory and Practice were devoted to IR. The resulting 13 articles did much to frame up the field and identify key issues. However, much has happened in IR over the subsequent two years. This article begins by introducing Integral Theory and its post-metaphysical approach to valid knowledge is presented. This approach includes eight methodological families that form the bases of integral methodological pluralism (IMP). IMP provides a very powerful framework for conducting mixed-methods research, which weaves together two first-, second- and third-person methodologies. Next, the basic principles of IR are presented and illustrative examples are provided from actual student and professional research proposals and projects. Integral approaches to coding and validity are discussed. In addition, some of the unique features of an integral researcher are outlined. Following this the current challenges facing IR are identified and suggestions for engaging these obstacles are provided. Many of the challenges deal with the “meta” dimensions of IR such as meta-data analysis (e.g., how to integrate multiple sets of data from qualitative and quantitative methods) and meta-validity issues (e.g., what are the unique validity issues that emerge when qualitative and quantitative methods are employed). Next, IR is compared and contrasted with other integral approaches to research. There are more and more integrative frameworks available to researchers today but it is not always clear how they are similar and different. I will provide some ways of exploring the strengths and weaknesses of multiple frameworks and choosing among them for research. Finally, current examples of IR projects in Nigeria, Peru, and the United States are provided. These contemporary examples do much to show how IR can be scaled and adjusted to fit a number a number of research projects and goals.
