Both projects -- and aspects of the study (qualitative and quantitative) had their advantages and disadvantages. In the first, researchers could hit for objective method and, via use of Likert scale, guidelines in creating the survey, guidelines in facilitators and in how the facilitators should approach the respondents, and other details that included statistical tools, could structure the survey in as objective a manner possible. On the other hand, we are dealing with a human population that may have misunderstood various questions, may retract some of their responses later, and may, amongst many other variables that creep into surveys, have found a one-line question, however open-ended it may be, insufficient in dealing with their particular situation. The qualitative aspect, therefore, provides the opportunity for both scenarios -- a scientific treatment and a more empathetic, flexible approach (that provides a 'richer' analysis) (Creswell, 2003). It was for this reason that the researchers used both. A mixed-methods approach follows various styles. The researchers chose a triangulated format. Here, both qualitative and...

The qualitative component, too, may describe why results diverge. If results converge, the study -- particularly since it has used polar methods -- indicates greater validity (Tashakkori, & Teddlie, 1998).
Reference

Creswell, J. (2003). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Thousand Oaks, California: Sage Publications.

Devlin, M., & McIlfatrick, S. (2010). Providing palliative and end-of-life care in the community: The role of the home-care worker. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 16(4), 195 -- 203. Retrieved from: http://ezp.waldenulibrary.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=49703873&site=ehost-live&scope=site

Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (1998). Mixed methodology: combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, Thousand Oaks, Calif.: Sage