Final answer:
Mixed methods research, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, provides a robust framework for recommending changes. Qualitative research entails understanding deeper meanings, while quantitative research focuses on numerical data and statistics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mixed methods research approach might provide the strength needed to recommend change, as it combines both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. While qualitative research involves collecting non-numerical data such as interviews and observations to understand concepts, opinions, or experiences, quantitative research involves collecting numerical data that can be transformed into usable statistics. This mixed approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding by leveraging the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative data.
When considering which research technique would most likely be used by a symbolic interactionist, participant observation would be a probable choice due to the focus on understanding people's behaviors and interactions within their social contexts.