Assumptions and Research Paradigms Flashcards
What is the role of research paradigms in social sciences?
They provide a comprehensive theoretical framework to understand, explain, describe, and interpret research findings.
How does a research paradigm inform methodology?
It articulates the paradigm’s logic, guiding how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted.
What are the three key philosophical aspects of research paradigms?
Ontology (nature of reality), Epistemology (how knowledge is acquired), and Axiology (ethics and values).
What is an example of an ontological question in research?
Does a single objective reality exist, or is reality constructed through individual and cultural perspectives?
How does epistemology affect research design?
It determines whether a study uses empirical, value-free (quantitative) or contextual, subjective (qualitative) approaches.
How does axiology influence research?
It considers researcher biases, ethical concerns, and the values embedded in the research process.
What is the primary goal of positivist research?
To predict and control phenomena through objective, measurable data and hypothesis testing.
What is a key limitation of positivist research?
It assumes reality is fixed and measurable, which may not account for subjective human experiences.
How does post-positivism differ from positivism?
Post-positivism acknowledges complexity, allowing for imperfect understanding and incorporating qualitative elements.
What is an example of a post-positivist study?
Bandura’s Bobo doll experiment, which recognized the influence of social context on behavior.
What does social constructivism emphasize in research?
The subjective meanings individuals create through social interactions, history, and culture.
What research methods align with interpretivism?
Interviews, case studies, and thematic analysis, which allow for deep understanding of subjective experiences.
What is a criticism of interpretivism?
While it provides in-depth understanding, it may lack objectivity and not drive concrete action for change.
What is the main objective of advocacy/participatory research?
To create social reform by addressing issues like oppression, alienation, and domination.
What is an example of advocacy-based research?
Photovoice projects that give marginalized communities a platform to share their experiences.
How does critical theory approach research?
It examines power relations, social structures, and historical realism to challenge systemic inequalities.
What are some key assumptions in critical theory?
Thought is mediated by power relations (Foucault), privilege exists (Marx), and oppression has multiple forms (Goffman).
What subfields fall under critical theory?
Feminist Theory, Critical Race Theory, and Queer Theory.
What is the focus of feminist theory in research?
It aims to understand and address gender-based oppression and inequalities in different social contexts.
What is the goal of Critical Race Theory?
To challenge racism in legal and institutional structures, not just individual prejudices.
How does Queer Theory contribute to research?
It challenges binary gender norms and explores how gender and sexual identities are constructed and performed.
What is the difference between inductive and deductive research?
Inductive research generates theories from observations (bottom-up), while deductive research tests existing theories (top-down).
How is inductive research commonly used?
It is often employed in qualitative studies to explore new phenomena without predefined hypotheses.
What is an example of deductive research?
Using Lazarus and Folkman’s Transactional Model of Stress to predict student coping strategies through surveys.
What is reflexivity in research?
The process of critically reflecting on one’s biases, values, and influence on research findings.
Why is reflexivity important in qualitative research?
It ensures that the researcher acknowledges their subjectivity and remains faithful to participants’ perspectives.
How can reflexivity be implemented in research?
Through reflective journals, bias discussions, and conscious awareness of personal perspectives.
What does credibility mean in qualitative research?
It refers to the trustworthiness and accuracy of research findings.
What are some methods to enhance credibility?
Triangulation (using multiple sources), member checking (verifying findings with participants), and peer review.
What is an example of triangulation in research?
Using interviews, focus groups, and document analysis to confirm emerging themes.
