Research Philosophy哲学研究.ppt

Research Philosophy A basic introduction to research philosophies, approaches , and strategies Ontology, epistemology, and methodology It is important to understand these strange words. They are at the centre of all research frameworks. They play a particularly important role in the social sciences, in which we are all involved. In terms of your own research, an understanding of each of these terms will help you to more meaningfully structure your ideas. Ontology Literally, the ‘science’, study, or philosophy of being. (The description ‘science, needs to be considered in this context with great care) Ontology relates to ‘being’ – what exists, what does it look, what units make it up, and how do these components relate to each other. Your ontological ‘position’ would then be your answer to the question ‘what is the nature of the subject you are investigating?’ Epistemology - 1 Literally, the ‘science’, study, or philosophy of knowledge. (Again the use of the word ‘science’ needs to be contextualised, as with ontology) Epistemology refers to the claims or assumptions made about the ways in which it is possible to gain knowledge of reality. So, if the ontologist asks the question ‘ what exists to be known?’, the epistemologist asks ‘ what are the conditions of acquiring knowledge of that which exists?’ Epistemology - 2 Epistemology concerns itself with such issues as the degree of certainty we might legitimately claim for the conclusions we are tempted to draw from our analyses. In essence, epistemology is about the source, and sourcing, of knowledge. You epistemological position therefore, would be your answer to the question ‘ where is it best to look in order to acquire knowledge, and why?’. Methodology Methodology relates to the choice of analytical strategy and research design which underpins substantive research. Definitionally, methodology can be seen as the analysis of how research should or does proceed. Care must be taken not to confuse methodology with met