This week I’ve learned that as a researcher I am a huge influence in the studies I conduct. I have always thought of research as being a clinical and free of personal bias. Yet as I learned about different theoretical models this week, I realized that the researcher is an important piece of the research methods.
Multiple components inform and influence the theoretical framework design. The research methods used are informed by a variety of factors including tacit theories, study goals, and personal interactions with participants and other researchers. Tacit theories are “an outgrowth of the attitudes, perspectives, ideologies, and values” (Ravitch and Carl, 2016) that influence how I understand the world, even if I don’t realize it. The conceptual framework uses tacit and formal theories to determine how a study is designed and carried out. These frameworks “evolve and change” as my understanding changes (Ravitch and Carl, 2016).
This week, I have been asked about my own openness to different theoretical models. At this point, I think I have the advantage of being new to “professional” research. As a new classroom teacher, I remember bringing ideas for lessons to the rest of my team and hearing that they weren’t going to work, or that isn’t they way we do things. I felt frustrated and disappointed at their unwillingness to try something new. I imagine as a seasoned researcher you gain insights about what works and what doesn’t and become comfortable with certain theoretical methods.
When asked to conduct research, I think I would have to considered multiple aspects of the research before I decided whether or not to take part in the research study. The theoretical model being used is one such aspect. If I felt uncomfortable with the model being used, I would ask myself why. If it was due to ethical reasons, I would have to decline. If it was unfamiliarity or a dislike of the theoretical model being used, I would weigh my discomfort against the potential benefits of the study. I wouldn’t want my weakness to negatively impact the study, but I would be open to learning new methods of research. I am always open to learning and personal/professional growth. If I dislike the methods being used, I would have to question how my personal attitudes would impact the study. Would my distaste for the methods being used cause me to do less than my best work in the research study? Would my productivity suffer and negatively impact the study?
If I determine that I would somehow be a hinderance to the study, I would decline the invitation and explain my reasoning. Perhaps, a middle ground could be found that would allow me to take part of the research study, but if not, I would prefer someone better suited to the study to be involved in the research. If after self-reflection, I determine that my lack of experience would not be a hinderance to the study or that my personal attitudes towards the research methods were unfounded, I would accept the assignment. I consider myself to be an open person, willing to look at multiple perspectives. However, I don’t think I would ever take part in a research study that made me feel uncomfortable due to ethical reasons.
Reference:
Ravitch, S.M. and Carl, N.M. (2016). Qualitative research: Bridging the conceptual, theoretical, and methodological. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications.
