Overview
This lecture provides an overview of research paradigms—positivism, interpretivism, and pragmatism—explaining their philosophical foundations and their influence on research methodology and design.
What is a Research Paradigm?
- A research paradigm is a guiding framework made up of philosophical assumptions for how research should be conducted.
- Paradigms influence research methodology, design, and the choice between qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.
- Research philosophy, including ontology (nature of reality) and epistemology (nature of knowledge), informs your paradigm choice.
Main Research Paradigms
- Positivism assumes a single reality that exists independently of human perception, using objective, quantitative methods and deductive reasoning.
- Interpretivism views reality as subjective, shaped by lived experiences and social interactions, using qualitative methods and interpretive analysis.
- Pragmatism focuses on solving research problems by using any methods (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed) that best answer the research question.
Ontological and Epistemological Considerations
- Ontology asks: What is the nature of reality? (single reality vs. multiple realities).
- Epistemology asks: What is the best way to gain knowledge? (objective measurement vs. subjective interpretation).
- These considerations guide the selection of a research paradigm and approach.
Choosing and Applying a Paradigm
- Reflect on your philosophical assumptions, research questions, and personal beliefs to decide your research paradigm.
- Discuss with supervisors, read relevant literature, and engage in reflexivity to align your paradigm, design, and methods.
- Feasibility and practical constraints may affect your choice and can lead to changes as your study progresses.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Research Paradigm — A set of beliefs and assumptions guiding research design and methodology.
- Ontology — The study of existence and beliefs about the nature of reality.
- Epistemology — The study of knowledge and how it is acquired.
- Positivism — Paradigm based on objective reality, quantitative methods, and deductive reasoning.
- Interpretivism — Paradigm focused on subjective understanding and qualitative methods.
- Pragmatism — Paradigm that uses any methods suitable to solve the research problem.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on your own philosophical stance and discuss with your supervisor.
- Review literature on research paradigms, ontology, and epistemology.
- Consider the feasibility of quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods for your study.
- Watch suggested videos on qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research approaches.