Research Paradigm

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A researcher is interested in understanding the experiences of patients who have undergone a new form of
therapy for chronic pain. The researcher conducts in-depth interviews with a small group of patients to explore
their personal stories, emotions, and perceptions of the therapy’s effectiveness. The researcher analyzes the data
by identifying themes and patterns from the participants’ narratives.
Question: What research paradigm does the scenario represent? What assumptions are made about the nature of
reality and knowledge in this paradigm? What is the research methodology that aligns with this paradigm?
Scenario: A study is conducted to explore how socioeconomic status influences access to healthcare services in
an urban area. The researcher employs a critical lens, analyzing how power structures, economic inequality, and
social policies contribute to disparities in healthcare access. The researcher also engages with the community,
advocating for policy changes based on the findings.
Question: What research paradigm does the scenario represent? What are the assumptions of this paradigm
guided the research in the scenario?
Scenario: A healthcare organization is exploring ways to improve patient satisfaction and operational efficiency.
The researcher chooses a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative focus
groups to gather numerical data and patient feedback. The researcher is less concerned with adhering to a single
research paradigm and more focused on finding practical solutions that work in the real world.
Question: What research paradigm does the scenario represent? What philosophical assumptions are with this
paradigm, and how do they differ from those of other paradigms? What is the research methodology that aligns
with this paradigm?

Sample Solution

Scenario 1: Research Paradigm

Research Paradigm: Interpretivism

Assumptions:

  • Reality is socially constructed and subjective.
  • Knowledge is gained through understanding individual experiences and interpretations.
  • Research should focus on understanding the meaning that individuals attach to their experiences.

Research Methodology:

  • Qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, and case studies are commonly used in interpretivism.
  • The researcher aims to understand the participants’ perspectives and experiences from their own point of view.
  • Data analysis involves identifying themes, patterns, and meanings within the participants’ narratives.

Scenario 2: Research Paradigm

Research Paradigm: Critical Research

Assumptions:

  • Reality is shaped by power structures and social inequalities.
  • Knowledge is produced through power relations and can be used to challenge dominant ideologies.
  • Research should be socially engaged and aimed at empowering marginalized groups.

Research Methodology:

  • Critical research methods such as critical discourse analysis, participatory action research, and feminist research are often used in this paradigm.
  • The researcher aims to uncover and challenge the power structures that contribute to social inequalities.
  • Data analysis involves identifying and critiquing the ways in which language, discourse, and social practices reinforce dominant ideologies.

Scenario 3: Research Paradigm

Research Paradigm: Pragmatism

Assumptions:

  • Reality is multiple and complex, and there is no single “true” reality.
  • Knowledge is instrumental and should be judged based on its usefulness in solving problems.
  • Research methods should be chosen based on their appropriateness for addressing the specific research question.

Research Methodology:

  • Mixed methods research is often used in pragmatism, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches.
  • The researcher is less concerned with adhering to a strict paradigm and more focused on finding practical solutions.
  • Data analysis involves using a variety of methods, depending on the research question and the type of data collected.

 

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