Grounded Theory Research

Grounded theory is a research design which implements qualitative research methods. According to Creswell (2005), it is used when you need "a broad theory or explanation of a process" (p.396).
When there is little is known about a process or the existing theories does not explain it, grounded theory research is used. The aim in this type of studies is to generate a theory. It is too assertive, isn't it.

However conducting a grounded theory research is not that much easy. first of all, the researcher who wish to implement such a study should decide on which type of grounded research to conduct. Creswell (2005) groups the types of grounded theory research under three: systematic design, emerging design and the constructivist design. The systematic design is the most "systematic" one with a positivist theory behind, whereas constructivist design put more emphasis on the beliefs and views of participants with a postmodern point of view. In fact for the young researchers, with no experience et all, systematic design is recommended.

In systematic design the structure o the reserach is clearly explained. In addition a diagram showing the theory is served. In emergent desing, on the other hand, more flexible structure is put forward. And lastly, for the constructivist design, any kind of prescribed theory formation is not welcomed. In the continuum of types of grounded tehory research, systematic design can be put in a more "quantitative like" position. Nevertheless, all three aim at formaiton of a theory or explanation of a unexplained process or action or interaction.

Creswell (2005) lists the following as the key characteristics of the grounded theory research.

• Process approach
• Theoretical sampling (sampling is intentional and focused on the generation of a theory)
• Constant comparative data analysis
• A core category 
• theory generation 
• Memos

Example purpose statement: "to explore the role of art therapy in individuals' recovery from chemical addiction."

Mixed Method

During my masters, I had already read this book. I have a copy with some notes in it. I am revising it these days. I should admit that, although one can learn about a research design by reading, no one can fully grasp the necessary knowledge for application without really applying research. But how? 

In brief, the book deals with mixed method as a research design and categorizes it under for themes: 

• triangulation design
• embedded design
• explanatory design 
• exploratory design 

Methodology? Research design? Research method?

Methodology: Philosophical framework and the fundamental assumptions of research (van Manen, 1990)

Research Design: The plan of action that links the philosophical assumptions to specific methods (Creswell, 2003; Crotty, 1998)

Research Method: Techniques of data collection and analysis such as quantitative standardized instrument or qualitative theme analysis of text data (Creswell, 2003; van Manen, 1990)

Developmental Research

Reeves, T. C. (2000). Enhancing the worth of instructional technology research through “design experiments” and other development research strategies. International perspectives on instructional technology research for the 21st century, New Orleans, LA, USA.

Writer convinces the researchers for the design experiments, developmental research in other words. It is a nice paper touching upon realities about instructional design research. Why there are so much "invaluable research" "research of its own sake" is explained clearly. I also deals with theory vs. practice issue. Developmental research is offered as a kind of solution to this well known problem.

RE-START

I (again) started to study for the qualification, this time as a mother. My son, who is just three months old is sleeping in his crib next door. I hope this time, in MAY 2012, I will pass this exam and start my doctoral dissertation studies. I sometimes question myself about my doctorate studies. Anyway this doesn't help. Let's get started. Re-started.