Philosophical Assumptions and Dominant Paradigms

Axiology

study of values and ethics. In research, it asks how the researcher's personal

beliefs, values, and ethical commitments influence the research process.

Ontology

study of the nature of reality or existence. It seeks to determine the nature of the

phenomenon being studied.

Epistemology

study of knowledge, including its sources, nature, limits, and justification. In

research, it asks how knowledge can be obtained and what counts as valid evidence.

Methodology

overall research approach and the rationale for choosing particular

methods. It is more than simply choosing a survey or an interview. It explains how your

philosophical assumptions guide the research design.

Positivism

assumes that there is an objective reality that exists independently of the researcher and can be observed, measured, and studied systematically. It is commonly associated with the scientific approach to research, where researchers seek to produce reliable, empirical, and verifiable knowledge.

Interpretivism

takes the view that reality and meaning can be subjective and socially constructed. It recognizes that people may experience and interpret the same situation differently because of their backgrounds, experiences, beliefs, and social contexts

Pragmatism

focuses on the research problem and its practical consequences rather than requiring the researcher to commit exclusively to one philosophical view. It emphasizes the idea that the research approach should be selected according to what is most

useful and appropriate for answering the research questions.