The Epistemological Foundations of Education Researchers

• In Event: Strategies for Teaching Educational Research

Abstract

Although Creswell (2007) emphasized the connections between philosophical beliefs and research practice, limited quantitative data exists concerning the personal epistemological beliefs of those who comprise the community of Education Researchers. This study describes the philosophical beliefs of this community by assessing their beliefs in four main categories, ontology, epistemology, axiology, and methodology. In addition this study examines the relationships between philosophical beliefs, research training and research practice. Results also include an examination of the shift in philosophical beliefs, within the community.

Creswell, J. W. (2007). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing
among five approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Authors

• David C. Ensminger, Loyola University Chicago

• Joshua R. Polanin, Loyola University Chicago

• Therese D. Pigott, Loyola University Chicago