I feel most drawn to the worldviews Creswell describes as Constructivism and Pragmatism (6). I think I am drawn to the Social Constructivist worldview because of its need of human interaction for meaning making. Being a fan of the social construction theory in education, I really do believe we have a lot to learn from each other, and I see this connecting to my beliefs on research methodologies and design.
At the same time, I feel drawn to the pragmatic worldview because I like the idea of using mixed methods. I think there are many issues/variables that determine the best methods of research for a particular topic, and I like knowing that I can choose the method that works best within the context. While both of these worldviews value qualitative research, they also acknowledge the importance of quantitative research.
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I think you are right in suggesting that we learn from each other. It's like the famous title of a book, "No Man is an Island." We really do need each other to learn many aspects of life. I wonder if females are more drawn to this construct as a worldview than males? It definitely seems to have a more feminine vibe and considering that the world of teaching has been dominated by females, it might make sense. Just a thought--by no means a fact :)
ReplyDeleteYour stance on valuing both qualitative and quantitative is a great place to exist. I think it is easy to believe one is more legit than another (especially if your field values one more than another), but the reality is we need both to get a better understanding of the whole picture. I actually was talking to Brian just yesterday about the fact I thought using mixed methods was a far better approach than aligning ourselves with one methodological approach.
Some good analysis of worldviews--makes this whole research world seem a little more tangible :)
I agree completely that the pragmatic view opens many more avenues of exploration. I don't know that a social constructivist paradigm is more attractive to women as opposed to men, but I do see how it can fit well into women's studies and feminist frameworks because it considers individual or group specifics and backgrounds.
ReplyDeleteRobin-
ReplyDeleteSeems like you and your group are having great talks. I've enjoyed reading all your posts and replies.
I can totally see the social construction/pragmatic paradigms working well together. Both owe a debt to the idea of context and situatedness, I think. Maybe there's a little pragmatist in us all?
Jen
Robin,
ReplyDeleteYou said: " think there are many issues/variables that determine the best methods of research for a particular topic, and I like knowing that I can choose the method that works best within the context."
Yes, yes, yes, yes! I think you said it here. My struggle is also going to be chhosing the right subject and designing the study with the appropriate methodology.
This is when choices seem hostile. :-)
(Actually it is really that I am not sure how to do this. I need to learn to narrow my choices.)