PSY115 T2 fisrt w lecture slides

Week 2 Overview

• Focus on two interconnected but distinct topics: Reflectiveness and Reflexivity in research practice.

• Ancillary topics related to core ideas.

Reflectiveness

• Defined broadly and applies to various domains including practice and philosophy.

• Describes a conscious, directed, and mindful awareness.

• Distinct from random thoughts; involves a deliberate processing of experience.

• Defined by Macintosh as an act of learning that reflects a shift in perception (incremental or insightful).

• Critical assertion: "We learn from reflecting on experience, not merely from the experience itself."

• Varying opinions on self-reflection: seen as beneficial by some, while others find it uncomfortable or narcissistic.

• Encourages introspection regarding ideologies, power structures, and personal assumptions.

• Reflection is linked to critical thinking, distinguishing critical from reflective thinking.

Reflexivity

• Traditionally viewed within the context of qualitative research; less relevant for quantitative methods.

• Aim: to critically examine one's own influences on research (thoughts, feelings, values).

• Contrary view: quantitative researchers believe in the possibility of objectivity.

• Qualitative researchers argue that complete objectivity is unattainable due to inherent subjectivity.

• Highlights the importance of acknowledging and scrutinizing personal biases in research practice.

• Links to critical thinking: requires questioning assumptions for deeper understanding.

• Different types of reflexivity:

  • Epistemic Reflexivity: Examines researcher belief systems and lived experiences.

  • Methodological Reflexivity: Focuses on research tools, what they reveal or conceal, and co-created data.

Distinction Between Reflection and Reflexivity

• Reflection is often an individual, internal process.

• Reflexivity tends to focus on relationships and interactions in research encounters.

• Example: A qualitative researcher studying ultramarathon runners reflected on personal experience and acknowledgment of her influence on the research question and process.

Practical Application of Reflexivity

• Reflexivity involves acknowledging the researcher's role and power dynamics in research interactions.

• Researchers must consider factors such as participant autonomy and social status in shaping research outcomes.

• Reflexivity is an active process, requiring researchers to make conscious decisions that influence their study.

Conclusion

• Both concepts are interconnected, requiring mindful introspection and complex thinking.

• Reflection can serve as a precursor to reflexivity.

• Reflexivity is not passive; it actively involves examining power and impact within research contexts.