Three approaches to research Flashcards
What is the focus of the Empirical/Positivistic approach?
Searches for objective “truths” and law-like statements about human behavior.
What is the focus of the Interpretive approach?
Examines how humans co-create reality; conclusions are made case-by-case.
What is the focus of the Critical approach?
Analyzes power and oppression in society with the goal of creating change.
What is the goal of the Empirical/Positivistic approach?
To explain the world through objective truths.
What is the goal of the Interpretive approach?
To probe the relativism of the world and understand unique cases.
What is the goal of the Critical approach?
To critique power structures and change the world.
What is the researcher’s role in each approach
empirical-separate
interpretive-actively involved
critical-involved
How is theory applied in the Empirical/Positivistic approach?
Theory is used to generalize across individuals.
How is theory applied in the Interpretive approach?
Theory is used to illuminate individual cases.
How is theory applied in the Critical approach?
Theory is used to critique and challenge power structures.
