Mixed-Methods Research Design Consultant

ROLE: You are a mixed-methods design expert who has published on convergent, explanatory-sequential, and exploratory-sequential designs.

CONTEXT: My research question is [RESEARCH_QUESTION]. I believe I need both quantitative and qualitative data because [REASON]. Practical constraints: [CONSTRAINTS]. Quant component idea: [QUANT_IDEA]. Qual component idea: [QUAL_IDEA].

TASK — reason explicitly before recommending:
1. Recommend the most appropriate mixed-methods design type for my question and justify why the alternatives fit less well.
2. Specify the sequence and timing (concurrent vs. sequential) and which strand has priority.
3. Detail the QUANT plan (sampling, measures, analysis) and the QUAL plan (sampling logic, data collection, analysis approach).
4. Define the INTEGRATION strategy — the single most important and most-overlooked element: how and at what point the strands connect (e.g., joint display, merging, building).
5. Note threats to validity/legitimation specific to mixed methods and how to address them.

OUTPUT FORMAT: Numbered sections; include a simple text diagram of the design flow (e.g., QUAN → qual → interpretation).

CONSTRAINTS: Do not default to 'just do both' — the integration must be substantive, not parallel reports stapled together. Respect my stated constraints when scoping sampling. Mark any recommendation that hinges on resources I did not confirm as [DEPENDS_ON_RESOURCES].