Novice Researchers' Conceptualization of Research Paradigms: Mapping the Processes and Outcomes of Learning

• In Event: 58.083 - Roundtable Session 26
  In Roundtable Session: 58.083-13 - Outcomes of Learning: Mapping the Processes of Being and Becoming

Abstract

Research paradigms are foundational to all social science research. Therefore, how novice researchers acquire their understanding of research paradigms is central for producing and reproducing a discipline’s knowledge as well as for the training of researchers. In this paper, we report a qualitative study on how novice researchers enrolled in an introductory Qualitative Research Methods seminar designed around a discussion of social science research paradigms develop their understanding of paradigms. Our findings highlight the variation in learning processes by which students conceptualize research paradigms and the resulting outcomes. We conclude with a discussion of the study’s implications for research on teaching qualitative research and for the design of research programs’ curricula.

Authors

• Sebnem Cilesiz, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

• Thomas Greckhamer, Louisiana State University