How to Apply Mixed Methods to Optimize What You Can Learn from Pilot Feasibility Studies to Improve Significance and Potential Impact of a Future Intervention Trial

Pilot feasibility studies serve a uniquely important role in preparing for large-scale intervention trials by examining the feasibility and acceptability of interventions and the methods used to test them. Mixed methods (collecting, analyzing, and integrating quantitative and qualitative data/results) can optimize what can be learned from pilot feasibility studies. This is particularly relevant for identifying and addressing inequities in intervention research (e.g., recruiting and retaining a diverse sample, acceptability of an intervention for populations that are underrepresented in research). Despite increasing interest in mixed methods, there is limited guidance on how to apply these approaches to address pilot feasibility study goals. In the context of early phase intervention research, several domains of feasibility are of interest, including recruitment; randomization; retention; assessment procedures; resources; intervention delivery, adherence, and safety; and acceptability of the intervention and control conditions. An in-depth understanding of factors that affect pilot feasibility processes and outcomes can help investigators effectively refine both intervention procedures and study procedures. This step is especially critical for promoting equity in research by increasing representation and participation in a future intervention trial for populations typically underrepresented in research. This workshop offers practical guidance for how social work intervention researchers can plan to integrate quantitative and qualitative methods within pilot feasibility studies to comprehensively address key research questions. Workshop presenters will discuss ways to apply mixed methods to optimize what can be learned from pilot feasibility studies drawing from published methodological sources and our complementary expertise as intervention researchers and mixed methodologists. The presenters came together as faculty in the Mixed Methods Research Training Program (MMRTP) for the Health Sciences (R25MH104660) funded by the National Institutes of Health through the Office of Behavioral and Social Science Research to collaborate on this workshop. We will present recommendations for five mixed methods planning considerations that can support the integration of qualitative and quantitative data within pilot feasibility intervention studies. While presenting each consideration, we will weave in concrete examples of how to apply the recommendations in a pilot feasibility study. Participants will learn how to select key domains of feasibility that would benefit most from a mixed methods investigation based on their research questions, target participants and implementation context, and to use joint displays to integrate qualitative and quantitative findings. Participants will be encouraged to contribute to the discussion during the interactive workshop and reflect on and share their own experiences with mixed methods and pilot feasibility studies. By effectively and efficiently integrating quantitative and qualitative data within mixed methods pilot feasibility studies, social work researchers can harness the potential of mixed methods for developing comprehensive and nuanced understandings about feasibility, particularly for populations underrepresented in research.n 4-12-2022-->