Understanding Research

Philosophies
and Approaches

Thushara Bandaranayake

Characteristics of research
paradigm

Ontology Researchers view of the nature

of reality . What assumptions do we make
about the way in witch the world works

Epistemology What nature of knowledge.

Researchers view on what constitutes acceptable
knowledge. What is the relationship between the
knower (the researcher) and the know(able)?

Axiology
Researchers view on role of
value/ethics in research methodology. How
should the researcher/inquirer go about finding
out knowledge?

Research Onion

Research philosophy
Research philosophy is an over-arching term
relating to the development of knowledge and
the nature of that knowledge

A paradigm is a basic set of beliefs that guide

action.

Pillars of Research
Philosophy

Positivism (Reality )

Realism (objects exists independently of our

knowledge)

Interpretivism (Understand the difference between

humans in their role as social actors)

Pragmatism (Arguing that it is possible to work

within both positivist & interpretivist)

Pillars of Research
Philosophy

Positivism - Tries to uncover the one truth about

how things are or a least what we focus on.

A structured method, combining logical deduction

with precise empirical (well known) observations (of
the behavior of individuals),
To open up and confirm causal relationships that are
generally valid with a known probability and which
can therefore be used for prediction.
purpose of science is to uncover the truth & make it
to be able to control and predict.

Pillars of Research
Philosophy
Positivism
*Humans are expected to be rational.
*Objectivity and precision is important.
* Therefore measurement and measures, tools
and procedures are very important. Because
reality is stable and truths are generally valid.

Comparison

on four
research
philosophies
in
managemen
t research

Reference : http://www.slideserve.com/zarifa/researchphilosophies-and-approaches

THANK YOU..