Final - Philosophical Foundations Flashcards
Epistemology
-study of knowledge and justified belief
-how knowledge is acquired, what constitutes valid knowledge, how beliefs are justified
Ontology
-study of being and the nature of reality
-questions what exists, categories of being, relationships btwn them
Research paradigms
-reflect different assumptions about the nature of reality and how knowledge can be acquired
Examples of research paradigms
-positivism
-interpretivism
-pragmatism
positivism
-emphasizes objective, measurable observations
-relied heavily on quantitative methods and hypothesis testing
Which paradigm seeks to stablish universal laws and principles?
positivism
Interpretivism
-understanding subjective experiences and meanings individuals attach to their world
-favors qualitative methods and inductive reasoning
Pragmatism
-emphasizes practical implications and usefulness of research findings
-open to both quantitative and qualitative methods
Deductive reasoning
STARTS: w/ general principles
USES: logical steps
END: specific conclusions
Inductive reasoning
STARTS: specific observation
END: draws general conclusions
-prone to biases and does not guarantee the truth of the conclusion
Why is important to understand a researcher’s worldview?
-may influence their research approach and interpretation of findings
Worldview: Positivism
-seeks objective truths through empirical observation and measurement
Worldview: Constructivism
-believes knowledge is constructed through individual and social interactions
Worldview: Pragmatism
-focuses on the practical implications and consequences of research findings
Worldview: Transformative Paradigms
-seek to address social justice issues and promote positive social change
