Assumptions and Research Paradigms

Question 1

What is the role of research paradigms in social sciences?

Answer 1

They provide a comprehensive theoretical framework to understand, explain, describe, and interpret research findings.

Question 2

How does a research paradigm inform methodology?

Answer 2

It articulates the paradigm’s logic, guiding how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted.

Question 3

What are the three key philosophical aspects of research paradigms?

Answer 3

Ontology (nature of reality), Epistemology (how knowledge is acquired), and Axiology (ethics and values).

Question 4

What is an example of an ontological question in research?

Answer 4

Does a single objective reality exist, or is reality constructed through individual and cultural perspectives?

Question 5

How does epistemology affect research design?

Answer 5

It determines whether a study uses empirical, value-free (quantitative) or contextual, subjective (qualitative) approaches.

Question 6

How does axiology influence research?

Answer 6

It considers researcher biases, ethical concerns, and the values embedded in the research process.

Question 7

What is the primary goal of positivist research?

Answer 7

To predict and control phenomena through objective, measurable data and hypothesis testing.

Question 8

What is a key limitation of positivist research?

Answer 8

It assumes reality is fixed and measurable, which may not account for subjective human experiences.

Question 9

How does post-positivism differ from positivism?

Answer 9

Post-positivism acknowledges complexity, allowing for imperfect understanding and incorporating qualitative elements.

Question 10

What is an example of a post-positivist study?

Answer 10

Bandura’s Bobo doll experiment, which recognized the influence of social context on behavior.

Question 11

What does social constructivism emphasize in research?

Answer 11

The subjective meanings individuals create through social interactions, history, and culture.

Question 12

What research methods align with interpretivism?

Answer 12

Interviews, case studies, and thematic analysis, which allow for deep understanding of subjective experiences.

Question 13

What is a criticism of interpretivism?

Answer 13

While it provides in-depth understanding, it may lack objectivity and not drive concrete action for change.

Question 14

What is the main objective of advocacy/participatory research?

Answer 14

To create social reform by addressing issues like oppression, alienation, and domination.

Question 15

What is an example of advocacy-based research?

Answer 15

Photovoice projects that give marginalized communities a platform to share their experiences.

Question 16

How does critical theory approach research?

Answer 16

It examines power relations, social structures, and historical realism to challenge systemic inequalities.

Question 17

What are some key assumptions in critical theory?

Answer 17

Thought is mediated by power relations (Foucault), privilege exists (Marx), and oppression has multiple forms (Goffman).

Question 18

What subfields fall under critical theory?

Answer 18

Feminist Theory, Critical Race Theory, and Queer Theory.

Question 19

What is the focus of feminist theory in research?

Answer 19

It aims to understand and address gender-based oppression and inequalities in different social contexts.

Question 20

What is the goal of Critical Race Theory?

Answer 20

To challenge racism in legal and institutional structures, not just individual prejudices.

Question 21

How does Queer Theory contribute to research?

Answer 21

It challenges binary gender norms and explores how gender and sexual identities are constructed and performed.

Question 22

What is the difference between inductive and deductive research?

Answer 22

Inductive research generates theories from observations (bottom-up), while deductive research tests existing theories (top-down).

Question 23

How is inductive research commonly used?

Answer 23

It is often employed in qualitative studies to explore new phenomena without predefined hypotheses.

Question 24

What is an example of deductive research?

Answer 24

Using Lazarus and Folkman’s Transactional Model of Stress to predict student coping strategies through surveys.

Question 25

What is reflexivity in research?

Answer 25

The process of critically reflecting on one’s biases, values, and influence on research findings.

Question 26

Why is reflexivity important in qualitative research?

Answer 26

It ensures that the researcher acknowledges their subjectivity and remains faithful to participants’ perspectives.

Question 27

How can reflexivity be implemented in research?

Answer 27

Through reflective journals, bias discussions, and conscious awareness of personal perspectives.

Question 28

What does credibility mean in qualitative research?

Answer 28

It refers to the trustworthiness and accuracy of research findings.

Question 29

What are some methods to enhance credibility?

Answer 29

Triangulation (using multiple sources), member checking (verifying findings with participants), and peer review.

Question 30

What is an example of triangulation in research?

Answer 30

Using interviews, focus groups, and document analysis to confirm emerging themes.