Mixed qualitative-simulation methods: understanding geography through thick and thin

Millington, J.; Wainwright, J.

Abstract

Across geography there has been variable engagement with the use of simulation and agent-based modelling. We argue that agent-based simulation provides a complementary method to investigate geographical issues which need not be used in ways that are epistemologically different in kind from some other approaches in contemporary geography. We propose mixed qualitative-simulation methods that iterate back-and-forth between ‘thick’ (qualitative) and ‘thin’ (simulation) approaches and between the theory and data they produce. These mixed methods accept simulation modelling as process and practice; a way of using computers with concepts and data to ensure social theory remains embedded in day-to-day geographical thinking.

Citation

Millington, J., & Wainwright, J. (2017). Mixed qualitative-simulation methods: understanding geography through thick and thin. Progress in Human Geography, 41(1), 68-88. https://doi.org/10.1177/0309132515627021

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Dec 21, 2015
• Online Publication Date: Feb 4, 2016
• Publication Date: Feb 1, 2017
• Deposit Date: Feb 11, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 12, 2016
• Journal: Progress in Human Geography
• Print ISSN: 0309-1325
• Electronic ISSN: 1477-0288
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 41
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 68-88
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0309132515627021
• Keywords: Agent-based model, Explanation, Modelling, Mixed methods, Simulation.
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1412326