The field of research has been coupled by a myriad of unending debates since the time immemorial. The centre of this discussion is in the methodologies used in social and behavioural sciences. It has resulted in a significant divide between the advocates of either the qualitative or quantitative paradigms. Keenly evaluating this dispute, it has resulted in nothing substantial in the field of research rather than purists. Mono-method research, however, is a significant challenge endangering the advancements in the social sciences. It is highly divisive in that sense.
In my perspective, however, from experience gathered in the field of research and studies on the methodologies employed in solving various research problems, I recommend the pragmatism paradigm in addressing a particular research problem. As long as we expect our research findings to be valued by the educational stakeholders, then we should not ignore the significance and importance of utilising both qualitative and quantifiable research approaches concurrently in our investigation in social and also in behavioural sciences. Though pragmatism is a new research paradigm in the field of social and behavioural science, it eliminates the confusion which for a long time has marred and characterised the research paradigms. It possesses a significant challenge to researchers on choosing the appropriate method to use in their research works.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Relationship between Pragmatism, Methodology, and Politics of Research
3. Similarities Linking the Research Methodologies
4. The Politics of Research
5. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
The primary objective of this work is to advocate for the adoption of the pragmatism paradigm within social and behavioural sciences to resolve the ongoing tension between qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The author argues that rigid adherence to a single research model limits scientific progress and that integrating both approaches is essential for a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena.
- The limitations of mono-method research in social sciences.
- The philosophical foundations of pragmatism as defined by John Dewey.
- Critical evaluation of the incompatibility thesis between research paradigms.
- The role of methodological pluralism in enhancing research validity.
- The intersection of research methodology, ethics, and political concerns.
Excerpt from the Book
Similarities Linking the Research Methodologies
According to Owuegbuzie, 2003, much of quantitative-qualitative deliberations have been engulfed by controversies which have significantly contributed to dividing, rather than illuminating. It has led to a significant challenge to researchers especially when it comes to deciding the best method to use.
To authenticate pragmatism paradigm, I emphasise on the pragmatic study into the similarities that exist between qualitative and quantitative approaches which form the base for every social science investigation. If the similarities between the two methods are more than the differences, why then should we put more weight on the just few variances, hence confuse educational researchers? Purists are infiltrated never to see these numerous similarities due to their proliferation of only one particular methodology.
The nature of data collected doesn't depict its meaning, e.g., qualitative vs quantitative. Instead, the insinuation is drawn in the way the data is deciphered be it in the form of words or numbers (Dcurec &Abraham,1993). Quantitative scholars use arithmetical approaches and viewpoint extrapolations to make conclusions on the data connotation. Qualitative researchers, however, utilise phenomenological measures and their first-hand experiences to bring out the purpose. (Dcurec &Abraham, 1993)
Summary of Chapters
Introduction: Provides an overview of the long-standing debate between qualitative and quantitative paradigms and introduces pragmatism as a solution to this divide.
Relationship between Pragmatism, Methodology, and Politics of Research: Explores the connection between John Dewey’s philosophical pragmatism and the need for a shift in research methodology.
Similarities Linking the Research Methodologies: Examines commonalities between diverse research methods and argues against the incompatibility theory.
The Politics of Research: Discusses the ethical and political dimensions of research and how social justice issues are intertwined with methodology.
Conclusion: Reaffirms the necessity of a paradigm shift towards pragmatism to benefit educational stakeholders and improve research outcomes.
Keywords
Pragmatism, Research Methodology, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Mixed Methods Research, Social Sciences, Behavioural Sciences, John Dewey, Methodological Pluralism, Incompatibility Thesis, Social Justice, Research Paradigm, Data Interpretation, Educational Stakeholders, Research Inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research paper?
The paper focuses on the methodological divide in social and behavioural sciences and advocates for pragmatism as a unifying paradigm.
What are the central themes discussed in the work?
Central themes include the evaluation of research paradigms, the role of methodological pluralism, and the political implications of research choices.
What is the primary objective of the author?
The primary objective is to persuade researchers to move beyond mono-method approaches and adopt pragmatic methods to address complex social problems effectively.
Which scientific methodology is highlighted as a solution?
The author promotes the pragmatism paradigm, which supports the integration of both qualitative and quantitative approaches within a single study.
What topics are covered in the main body of the paper?
The main body covers the history of paradigm debates, the philosophical influence of John Dewey, the identification of similarities between methodologies, and the politics of research.
Which keywords characterize this study?
Key terms include pragmatism, methodological pluralism, research paradigms, social justice, and mixed methods research.
How does the author view the "incompatibility theory"?
The author critiques the incompatibility theory, arguing that it creates unnecessary barriers for researchers and limits the scope of scientific investigation.
In what way does the author connect politics to research methodology?
The author argues that all research inquiries are inherently ethical and political, particularly when considering social justice and the impact of research on the world.
- Quote paper
- Bora Kurum (Author), 2017, Pragmatism, Methodology and Politics of Research, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/432174
