Understanding Research Paradigms, Ontology, and Epistemology

Key Concepts

• Ontology

  • Examines the nature of reality.
  • Addresses the question: "What is reality?"
  • Three types of ontologies:
    1. Belief in a single reality or truth.
    2. Belief in multiple realities.
    3. Belief that reality is constantly negotiated, debated, or interpreted.

• Epistemology

  • Examines how we can examine or understand reality.
  • Addresses the question: "How can I know reality?"
  • Three types of epistemologies:
    1. Knowledge can be measured using reliable designs and tools.
    2. Reality needs to be interpreted to discover underlying meaning.
    3. Knowledge should be examined using the best tools suited to solve the problem.

Research Paradigms

• Research Paradigm
  • Combining ontology and epistemology gives a holistic view of understanding knowledge.
  • Common research paradigms include positivism, constructivism, and pragmatism.

1. Positivism

• Ontology: Belief in one single reality or truth.
• Epistemology: Knowledge can be measured.

2. Constructivism

• Ontology: Belief in multiple realities.
• Epistemology: Knowledge needs to be interpreted to discover underlying meaning.

3. Pragmatism

• Ontology: Reality is constantly negotiated, debated, or interpreted.
• Epistemology: Knowledge should be examined using whatever tools best suit the problem.

Importance of Understanding Research Paradigms

• Helps in establishing the best approach and methodology for research.
• Improves the quality of research by providing clarity on understanding knowledge.