Constructing Compatibility Among Race, Reflexivity, and Grounded Theory: A Critical Methodological Analysis of Questionable Theory-Method Combinations

• In Event: Fresh and New Constructivist Research Papers: Open to All AERA Members

Abstract

Grounded theory (GT) has always been a work in progress. As such, grounded theorists must commit to aligning reflexive methodology with evolving philosophical assumptions of their disciplines. In schools of education, research espousing critical race theory (CRT) is fast becoming the preferred approach to scholarship that seeks to promote equity. CRT, however, relies on realist ontologies that contradicts interpretivism’s carte blanche nature of reality. The purpose of this critical methodological analysis is to assess compatibility of critical race theory with constructivist GT methodology and to evaluate extant literature for indications of how constructivists have resolved this ontological conflict. If GT is to grow apace with critical race theoretical applications, it must consider navigating the antiracist turn in contemporary qualitative research.

Authors

• Eileen Boswell, University of Nebraska - Omaha

• Wayne Babchuk, University of Nebraska - Lincoln