The article discusses the mixed methods approach as a "third paradigm" in social research, highlighting its distinct ideas and practices compared to traditional quantitative and qualitative paradigms. However, it also points out variations and inconsistencies within this approach, which should not be overlooked. The author argues that a research paradigm based on "communities of practice" can better accommodate these variations and inconsistencies. This approach aligns with the pragmatist underpinnings of mixed methods, allows for diversity, and helps understand the methodological choices made by researchers. The article explores the concept of communities of practice, emphasizing their role in knowledge acquisition and the social nature of learning. It suggests that communities of practice can provide a flexible and permeable framework for mixed methods research, allowing for the accommodation of different research communities, open membership, and the influence of social factors on methodological decisions. The conclusion emphasizes the benefits of defining research paradigms in terms of communities of practice, including their ability to explain variations, align with Kuhn's views on paradigms, and reflect the problem-driven nature of inquiry.The article discusses the mixed methods approach as a "third paradigm" in social research, highlighting its distinct ideas and practices compared to traditional quantitative and qualitative paradigms. However, it also points out variations and inconsistencies within this approach, which should not be overlooked. The author argues that a research paradigm based on "communities of practice" can better accommodate these variations and inconsistencies. This approach aligns with the pragmatist underpinnings of mixed methods, allows for diversity, and helps understand the methodological choices made by researchers. The article explores the concept of communities of practice, emphasizing their role in knowledge acquisition and the social nature of learning. It suggests that communities of practice can provide a flexible and permeable framework for mixed methods research, allowing for the accommodation of different research communities, open membership, and the influence of social factors on methodological decisions. The conclusion emphasizes the benefits of defining research paradigms in terms of communities of practice, including their ability to explain variations, align with Kuhn's views on paradigms, and reflect the problem-driven nature of inquiry.