According to de Vaus (2001), the significance of objective observations in research is paramount, as they allow researchers to understand knowledge from a detached viewpoint distinct from personal experiences (Burkholder et al., 2020_. This approach often leads to formulating research questions to uncover objective truths and measurable outcomes, typically resulting in quantitative research designs (Walden University, 2016a). For example, when researchers emphasize objective data collection, they may investigate how specific variables influence outcomes, shaping their research inquiries to explore these relationships (Burkholder et al., 2020).
Conversely, ontology focuses on the nature of being, existence, and reality. It posits that personal experiences and subjective interpretations are legitimate and can deepen understanding (Walden University, 2016a). This perspective encourages researchers to craft questions that delve into individual experiences and perceptions, often leading to qualitative research designs. A constructionist viewpoint, for instance, suggests that our experiences shape our perceptions, prompting researchers to consider how these subjective experiences inform their research questions (Walden University, 2016a).
These epistemological and ontological considerations are crucial for researchers as they select suitable methodologies and frame their research questions. By acknowledging their epistemological and ontological orientations, researchers can align their research designs with their objectives, whether to uncover objective truths or explore subjective experiences. This alignment is vital for conducting meaningful and relevant research that addresses the complexities of the phenomena under study (Walden University, 2015c).
The role of theory in research is also critical, as it helps answer the ‘why’ questions in social science. Theories can vary in complexity and scope, and they strive to make sense of observations. De Vaus (2001) explores two main approaches related to theory: theory building and theory testing. Theory building begins with observations and employs inductive reasoning to develop a theory, creating plausible explanations based on collected data. However, these explanations are often just one of many possible interpretations and require systematic testing to assess their validity.
On the other hand, theory testing starts with an existing theory and uses deductive reasoning to evaluate its validity against empirical observations. A theory is deemed valid if the expected outcomes follow logically from it (de Vaus, 2001). If the anticipated outcomes do not materialize, the theory may need to be revised or rejected, but this process necessitates multiple disconfirmations to ensure robustness. Theory guides the research process, helping researchers structure their inquiries, identify necessary evidence, and evaluate competing explanations. It is essential to minimize the risk of drawing incorrect causal inferences from data and to ensure that research findings are as straightforward as possible (de Vaus, 2001).
In summary, to accept or utilize a theory, one must believe that human behavior is predictable and consistent. Embracing theories that do not adequately describe or provide a foundation for predicting or intervening in future behavior would be unhelpful. Thus, aligning epistemological and ontological assumptions with one’s philosophical orientation is crucial for effective research design.
References
Burkholder, G. J., Cox, K. A., Crawford, L. M., & Hitchcock, J. H. (Eds.). (2020). Research designs and methods: An applied guide for the scholar-practitioner. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
de Vaus, D. A. (2001). Research design in social research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
Walden University: Library. (2015c). Theorists and theories: Discover theorists & theories. Retrieved from http://academicguides.waldenu.edu/theoryLinks to an external site.
Walden University, LLC. (Producer). (2016a). Introduction to research design [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author