INRS 7311 : An Introduction to Defintions , Paradigms and Theories in Research Theme 2 : Research Paradigms

Question 1

Define a paradigm in your own words 3 marks

Answer 1

Best and most simply described as a cluster or set of beliefs . . Dictates how any particular research is done .

Question 2

Explain a paradigm shift in your own words . 4 marks .

Answer 2

• Scientists over time develop a set way of carrying out research analysis etc.
• Sooner or later , a situation arises where those set ways are challenged , thus requiring a shift .
• A paradigm shift is then defined as a change in set ways of thinking or operating , to adapt properly to these aforementioned new situations .

Question 3

Explain ways of generating knowledge 9 marks .

Answer 3

• Empirical-analytical : A technical science .Deals with events that can be observed and scientifically explained . Linked to positivism and quantitative research . Aims to find causal relationships
• Historical-hermeneutic : Practical in nature , tries to understand a phenomenon in-depth . Linked to interpretivism and qualitative research . Aims to improve understanding .
• Critically orientated : A science looking to improve self-actualisation and autonomy . Blends quali and quantitative research . Linked to critical realism . Aims to free people from oppression

Question 4

Distinguish between science and non-science 2 marks .

Answer 4

• Science = Rigourous investigations into the unknown . Great effort to verify results .
• Non-science = Common sense knowledge that is widely agreed upon .

Question 5

Distinguish between the three dominant research traditions . 9 marks .

Answer 5

• Positivism = Broadly described as the approach of the natural sciences . Insists that only verifiable/objective facts should be considered . Aims to find causal relationships .
• Interpretivism = Developed as a reaction to positivisms shortcomings . Main idea of the paradigm is that people are different from objects and thus can’t be studied in such a black and white manner . Aims to get a much deeper understanding .
• Critical realism = A mixed method approach aimed to correct positivism’s narrow , non human approach and Interpretivism’s broad contextual approach. Aims to free people from repression using research .

Question 6

Describe Positivism in terms of its ontological , epistemiological , metatheoretic , methodological and axiological positions 10 marks

Answer 6

• *Ontological = Anything verifiable via study
• Epistemomology = Studies , trials etc
• Metatheory = Can these theories link cause to effect ?
• Methodology = Quantitative
• Axiology= Facts , observations .

Question 7

Describe Interpretivism in terms of its ontological , epistemiological , metatheoretic , methodological and axiological positions 10 marks

Answer 7

• Ontology = Anything felt very strongly about .
• Epistemology = Human mind , behaviour , interactions
• Metatheory = Is the theory unique ? Does it have varied applications each time
• Methodology = Qualitative
• Axiology = Understanding , Uniqueness and Subjectivity .

Question 8

Describe Critical Realism in terms of its ontological , epistemiological , metatheoretic , methodological and axiological positions

Answer 8

• Ontology = Constant power struggle
• Epistemology = Oppressive struggle
• Metatheory = Are there ways to utilize theories for liberation ?
• Methodology = Mixed method . (Quantitative and Qualitative)
• Axiology = Emancipation