Dr. Nancy Agnes discusses philosophical paradigms in research, emphasizing their critical role in influencing research methodology, including topic selection and data analysis. Four main paradigms—positivism, interpretivism, critical theory, and constructivism—each with unique assumptions about reality and the researcher’s role, guide research practices. The choice of paradigm is essential for ensuring rigorous and meaningful research outcomes.

1. An Academic presentation by
Dr. Nancy Agnes, Head, Technical Operations, Tutors India
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2. Philosophical paradigms are underlying assumptions and views that influence
every stage of research methodology, such as dissertation topic selection, data
collection, and statistical analysis procedures.
They are the fundamental and theoretical viewpoints that determine how
researchers conduct research and interpret their findings.
Different types of philosophical paradigms exist that guide the research
methodology and approaches to research methodology.
WHAT ARE PHILOSOPHICAL PARADIGMS
IN RESEARCH?

3. TYPES OF PHILOSOPHICAL
PARADIGM
There are several types of philosophical paradigms in research that includes positivism, interpretivism,
critical theory, and constructivism.
Each of these paradigms is based on its own set of assumptions and ideas about the nature of reality, the
role of the researcher and their connection with the research participants.
The choice of a philosophical paradigm depends on the research question, objectives, and nature of the
dissertation topic.
CONTD

4. Positivism is based on the philosophical attitude of natural scientists
who work with observable reality within society to generate
generalisations.
The positivism research paradigm prioritises objectivity and
quantitative research methods to study observable phenomena. It is
based on the assumption that a single reality can be observed and
measured and that knowledge can be obtained using scientific
procedures.
CONTD
POSITIVISM

5. The concept of interpretivism evolved from critiquing the positivism research paradigm. Interpretivism is a
philosophical paradigm that emphasises subjectivity and uses qualitative methods to study social
phenomena.
Interpretivism is more concerned with in-depth variables and aspects associated with a context; it regards
humans as distinct from physical phenomena in that they provide greater depth in meanings on the belief
that humans cannot be investigated in the same manner that physical phenomena can.
CONTD
INTERPRETIVISM

6. CONTD
Critical theory is a philosophical paradigm that prioritises social justice and studies power interactions and
social systems utilising qualitative methods.
It takes the view that social inequality and oppression are ingrained in society and that science can be utilised
to question and reform these institutions.
CRITICAL THEORY

7. Constructivism is a philosophical paradigm that emphasises the role of the researcher in building knowledge
through research methodology.
It is assumed that knowledge is gained by the interaction between the researcher and the study participants
and that the researcher’s notions and opinions might impact the research outcomes
CONSTRUCTIVISM

9. Choosing a philosophical paradigm is important because it guides the research methodology and approach.
Different paradigms require different research methods and techniques and can lead to different conclusions
about the research topic.
Check out our study guide for more guidance on choosing an appropriate research methodology.
Choosing the proper philosophical paradigm is essential for conducting robust and relevant research. Failure
to choose an appropriate paradigm can result in research that is neither rigorous, coherent, nor meaningful.
IMPORTANCE OF PHILOSOPHICAL
PARADIGMS IN GUIDING
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

10. Research methodology involves collecting, analysing and interpreting the data collected during research.
Research methodology is often based on the understanding of the research gaps that are identified from a
literature review.
This understanding often gives rise to assumptions to guide the research, known as philosophical paradigms
Positivism, Interpretivism, Critical Theory and Constructivism are the types of philosophical paradigms in
research.
Choosing a relevant philosophical paradigm helps guide research to obtain results that help answer the
research question.
.
CONCLUSION

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