Ontology, Epistemology, Methodology : Toward a Better Understanding of Research in the Social Sciences / Carolyn A. E. Graham.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Graham, Carolyn A. E., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Social sciences--Research--Methodology.

Social sciences.

Physical Description:

1 online resource : illustrations

Place of Publication:

London, England : SAGE Publications Ltd, 2025.

Summary:

Ontology, epistemology, and methodology are words that may bring anxiety to many research students and even early-career researchers. These terms are usually introduced at the postgraduate level. At that time, students are expected to grasp the concepts and understand how to apply them in their research projects. These terms may seem to be complex and difficult to grasp given when they are introduced to students and how they are taught. However, having a clear understanding of the philosophical bases of research in the social sciences and how methodologic choices are informed by these philosophical underpinnings is critical to a more enriching and liberating research experience. This How-to Guide aims to demystify these concepts by presenting their main features in a clear and simple way to help students grasp their role in research. The guide begins with a broad introduction to the main concepts. It then delves into the specifics of these concepts. Next, an example from my research experience is presented. Students are then invited to reflect on their own philosophical orientation. It is hoped that after engaging with this How-to Guide, students will develop a clear understanding of the philosophical bases of social sciences research and how philosophy influences the methodologic choices researchers make. This understanding should help students develop confidence in designing and conducting their own research as well as explain the research choices they make.

Notes:

Description based on publisher supplied metadata and other sources.

ISBN:

1-03-622339-6

9781036223397

OCLC:

1523172161