Research Paradigms MCQ Quiz in मल्याळम - Objective Question with Answer for Research Paradigms - സൗജന്യ PDF ഡൗൺലോഡ് ചെയ്യുക

Qualitative research is grounded in the assumption that individuals construct social reality in the form of meanings and interpretations, and that these constructions tend to be transitory and situational. Qualitative research typically involves qualitative data, i.e., data obtained through methods such as interviews, on-site observations, and focus groups that are in narrative rather than numerical form. Such data are analyzed by looking for themes and patterns. It involves reading, re-reading, and exploring the data.

Quantitative research →  positivist and post-positivist paradigm

Qualitative research →  the interpretative paradigm and critical theory paradigm.

Features of Qualitative research

• Mainly for exploratory purposes and to generate hypotheses.
• The usual purpose is to generate a range and variety of data. 
• The methods of inquiry are informal and flexible.
• The researcher usually starts with only a broad indication of the information objectives of the project, but with a clear understanding of the overall purpose of the research. 
• The researcher usually works from a list of the topics to be covered, but the course of each ‘interview’ will be influenced by the respondent.
• Probability sample techniques are used in data collection.
• Data gathering to take place with top-down systematic evidence.
• Data collection with bottom-up empirical evidence is considered critical in this research. The aim of bottom-up studies, in contrast, is rather to give an accurate empirical description and explanation of the interactions and problem-solving strategies of actors involved in policy delivery. Many of the bottom-up studies do not go beyond providing descriptive accounts of a large amount of discretion available to implementers. 
• Based on small numbers of respondents who take part individually or in small groups.
• It cannot be known how true the findings are of the population from which the respondents are drawn.
• Data collection is usually handled by research professionals. 
• Use of standardized research tools.
• A qualitative project cannot be repeated exactly, because every data collection event in a project is different. 
• The findings can rarely be expressed in statistical form Analysis and conclusion rely heavily on the researcher’s perceptions and interpretation skills.

​Hence, In the qualitative research paradigm, Data collection with bottom-up empirical evidence considered critical because the other steps after data collection are highly influenced by this method adopted in data collection.

Out of the listed options, the one that emphasizes truths and moral values not being universal and varying between individuals and cultures is: D. Cultural Relativism

Key Points

•  Ethnocentrism: This approach judges other cultures through the lens of one's own culture, believing their own values and beliefs are superior. It contradicts the idea of diverse and valid viewpoints across cultures.
• Solipsism: This philosophy posits that only one's own mind and experiences are real, essentially denying the existence of other individuals and cultures. It doesn't consider the relative nature of values across different groups.
• Moral Absolutism: This approach argues that there are universal moral truths that apply to everyone, regardless of culture or context. It goes against the notion of values being relative and dependent on specific environments.

Therefore, Cultural Relativism stands out as the philosophy that embraces the idea that truths and moral values are not absolute and can vary significantly between individuals and cultures. It emphasizes understanding and respecting these diverse perspectives without judging them against a universal standard.

Among the provided statements, the one that aligns with a post-positivist approach to research is: D. Knowledge is conjectural and our understanding of reality is never complete or final.

 Key Points

• A. Absolute truth can be discovered through empirical observation and measurement: This statement reflects positivist thinking, which posits that absolute truths exist and can be uncovered through objective scientific methods. Post-positivists recognize the limitations of such methods and acknowledge the influence of context and subjectivity on knowledge.
• B. There is a single, objective reality that can be understood perfectly: Similar to option A, this reflects the positivist ideal of a singular, objective reality independent of human perception. Post-positivism embraces the idea that our understanding of reality is constructed through social and cultural lenses, making it multifaceted and open to interpretation.
• C. Researchers cannot influence the research process and should remain entirely objective: While striving for objectivity is important, post-positivists acknowledge that researchers' own backgrounds, values, and theoretical frameworks inevitably influence their research questions, methods, and interpretations.

Therefore, option D stands out as the statement that resonates with the core principles of post-positivism. It recognizes the tentative nature of knowledge, the influence of subjectivity and context, and the ongoing process of constructing our understanding of the world.

Key Points

•  Axiology in the research process is concerned with the study of values and ethics.
• It is the branch of philosophy that examines what we value and why, and how our values influence our thinking and behavior.
• In the research context, axiology is concerned with the values that researchers bring to their work, the ethical implications of their research, and the potential impact of their research on society.

The other options are incorrect:

• Epistemological assumptions are concerned with the nature of knowledge and how we can acquire it.
• Research methodology refers to the specific methods and techniques that researchers use to collect and analyze data.
• Study of values and ethics is the definition of axiology.
• Null hypotheses are statistical statements that are used to test the significance of research findings.

Therefore, the correct answer is C.

In an empirico-inductive paradigm, the researcher collects empirical data (empirico) from specific cases to generalize (inductive) its research finding.

Key Points

• ​Empirico‐inductive paradigm in the research focuses on meaning giving subjective perspective to depict reality.
• Empirical research makes use of quantitative and qualitative data gathering methods which may include surveys, experiments, and methods of observation.
• ​Empirico‐inductive paradigm in the research is concerned with the process rather than simply with outcomes or products.
• ​Empirico‐inductive paradigm in the research is concerned with what are called ‘participant perspectives’
• In an empirico-inductive paradigm, the researcher collects empirical data (empirico) from specific cases to generalize (inductive) its research finding.
• Empirical research makes use of quantitative and qualitative data gathering methods which may include surveys, experiments, and methods of observation

Therefore statement A and C are the characteristics of empirico‐inductive paradigm of research.

Key Points

•  While all research strategies can find some application in post-positivism, it tends to favor approaches that differ from the ones listed:
  • Strictly controlled laboratory experiments: Post-positivism acknowledges the limitations of artificial settings and the difficulty of fully controlling variables in real-world contexts.
  • Observational studies with predetermined and fixed categories: This rigid approach doesn't align with the post-positivist recognition of the fluidity and complexity of social phenomena.
  • Research studies that involve manipulating and controlling variables: While sometimes valuable, post-positivism emphasizes understanding the nuances of individual experiences and contexts, going beyond manipulating variables to purely explain outcomes.

Therefore, the research strategy most associated with post-positivism is: D. Qualitative research exploring subjective experiences.

• Emphasis on subjectivity: Post-positivism recognizes the role of individual interpretations and perspectives in shaping knowledge and understanding. Qualitative research methods like interviews and observations allow access to these subjective experiences.
• Contextualization: Post-positivism emphasizes the importance of social and cultural contexts in shaping meaning and behavior. Qualitative research allows researchers to explore these contexts in detail.
• Multiple perspectives: Post-positivism values understanding diverse viewpoints and avoids claiming absolute truths. Qualitative research facilitates engagement with the perspectives of different individuals and groups.

While other research strategies may be used within post-positivism, its core principles resonate most with qualitative approaches that explore subjective experiences within their broader contexts and acknowledge the multiplicity of perspectives.

Research Methodology is the systematic process of conducting research. Research methodology helps the researchers to explain the underpinning of research problems. The different research methodology was developed in different period with the intent to analyze the cause and effect of different problems of the different disciple. 

Important Points

Hence, the correct matching is (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II).

A paradigm is a standard, perspective, or set of ideas. A paradigm is a way of looking at something. 

Concept of Paradigm:

• The historian of science Thomas Kuhn gave it its contemporary meaning.
• Kuhn fathered, defined and popularized the concept of “paradigm shift”.
• In his book, The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (first published in 1962), Kuhn defines a scientific paradigm as: "universally recognized scientific achievements that, for a time, provide model problems and solutions for a community of practitioners".
• He adopted the word to refer to the set of concepts and practices that define a scientific discipline at any particular period of time.
• According to him scientific advancement is a series of peaceful interludes punctuated by intellectually violent revolutions.
• Therefore, it is a change in the way of thinking from one form to another.​

• Peter Haggett: 
  • Peter Haggett CBE FBA is a British geographer and academic, at the School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol.
  • Professor Haggett is noted for his significant research contributions to the field of human geography.
• Von Thunen: 
  • Johann Heinrich von Thünen, was a prominent nineteenth century economist.
  • He is a German agriculturalist best known for his work on the relationship between the costs of commodity transportation and the location of production.
  • He is remembered for his book, Der isolierte Staat (1826, “The Isolated State”). 
• John K. Wright:
  • ​John Kirtland Wright was an American geographer, notable for his cartography, geosophy, and study of the history of geographical thought. 
  • He introduced the concept of Geosophy and studied the idea of 'geographical lore'.

Thus, Thomas Kuhn propounded the concept of paradigm.

Among the listed methodologies, the one most likely to align with a post-positivist approach to research is: C. An interpretive analysis of policy documents.

Key Points

•  Experimental research under controlled conditions: While post-positivism doesn't completely disregard quantitative methods, its emphasis on understanding social phenomena in their real-world complexity often makes controlled lab experiments less suitable. These typically lack the contextual richness and flexibility that post-positivists value.
  • Large-scale survey with closed-ended questions: This quantitative approach, with predetermined options, limits the exploration of diverse perspectives and subjective experiences, aspects important to post-positivism. Closed-ended questions might miss the nuances and complexities researchers seek to understand.
  • Double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial: Similar to controlled experiments, this robust methodology prioritizes quantitative data and controlled variables, which, while valuable, can overshadow the social and contextual factors post-positivists often want to address.
  • An interpretive analysis of policy documents: This qualitative approach aligns well with post-positivist principles in several ways:
  • Focus on subjective interpretations: Analyzing the language and intent behind policy documents can reveal the perspectives and values embedded within.
  • Contextualization: Examining documents within their historical and social context provides a richer understanding of their meaning and impact.
  • Multiple perspectives: Different interpretations of policy documents can be acknowledged and compared, reflecting the post-positivist recognition of diverse viewpoints.

Therefore, C presents a method that allows for in-depth exploration of meaning, context, and diverse perspectives, elements key to the post-positivist research approach. While other methodologies can hold value within post-positivism, the interpretive analysis aligns most closely with its core principles.

Key Points 

• In the post-positivist research approach, researchers acknowledge the limitations of pure positivism and embrace a wider range of methodologies. While many methods can be used within post-positivism, some align more closely with its key characteristics than others. Let's analyze the given options:
  • Controlled clinical trials: While these experiments ensure high internal validity through control and randomization, they often lack real-world generalizability and may limit the consideration of diverse perspectives, which are important in post-positivism.
  • Longitudinal cohort studies: These studies provide valuable data on changes over time but still focus on quantitative measurements and may overlook the subjective experiences and social contexts that post-positivism emphasizes.
  • Phenomenological research: This method, focusing on understanding individuals' lived experiences through in-depth interviews, aligns well with post-positivism's preference for qualitative data and recognizing the subjective nature of knowledge.
  • Randomized controlled experiments: Similar to controlled clinical trials, these experiments prioritize control and objectivity, which while valuable, can miss the nuances and complexities that post-positivism seeks to understand.

Therefore, the research method most commonly associated with the post-positivist approach is: Phenomenological research