Final answer:
Action research is likely the method being conducted when researchers, clients, and stakeholders collaborate, as it involves collective participation to solve problems and improve situations. The correct answer is option 4) Action research.
Step-by-step explanation:
When researchers, clients, and stakeholders work together in a research project, the form of research being conducted is likely to be action research.
Action research involves a participatory process where all parties actively engage in the research to solve a specific problem or to improve a specific situation. It differs from quantitative research and qualitative research in that it is more collaborative and aims at immediate application, rather than solely gathering data or exploring phenomena.
Action research can employ a variety of methods including surveys, interviews, and observation, and it often has a cyclic approach with stages of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. This form of research is particularly valuable in educational settings, community work, and organizational development, where the stakeholders are directly affected by the outcome of the research and can participate in change implementation.
Mixed methods research is another approach that combines both qualitative and quantitative methods but does not necessarily involve the collaborative aspect of action research. Every research method comes with advantages and limitations, and the research question along with the topic of study strongly influences which method or methods are put to use.
Action research stands out for involving participants in the research process, directly aiming at practical solutions and improvements.