A problem or topic can be viewed using different epistemological paradigms. As you read Huang and Fang’s (2016) article, notice the different assumptions taken when depression is viewed from two epistemological lenses. The postpositivist assumes that although depression as a phenomenon cannot be perfectly quantified, one can attempt to measure it. The postpositivist’s goal is to obtain an accurate and objective sense of reality. On the other hand, ontologically, the social constructivist assumes that depression cannot be measured because everyone holds different experiences and meanings related to the problem of depression; therefore, a research can only measure the individual’s interpretation of depression.
Axiologically, the postpositivist assumes that when conducting research about depression, they will attempt to be objective, while the social constructivist does not believe it is possible to be objective. After all, as human beings, we bring our values, beliefs, and experiences to how we see the problem and interact with the research participants. The postpositivist researcher likely uses quantitative methods, while the social constructivist researcher uses qualitative methods. In the article, observe how the research method is aligned with the ontological and axiological assumptions.
In this Discussion, you practice taking a potential doctoral capstone topic and viewing it from different epistemological lenses.
To prepare:
Review the following resources from the Learning Resources this week:
The Huang & Fang article, “Understanding Depression from Different Paradigms: Toward an Eclectic Social Work Approach.”
The Yilmaz article, “Comparison of Quantitative and Qualitative Research Traditions: Epistemological, Theoretical, and Methodological Differences.”
The PDF, Walden’s Epistemology Guide. Review Tables 1, 2, and 3.
The faculty research videos.
Review the remaining required resources from your Learning Resources this week, and cite at least one additional resource in your posts.
By Day 4
Post a response to the following.
In 1 sentence, identify a topic that you may want to pursue for your doctoral capstone project (i.e., dissertation or DSW capstone project). It can be a broad topic, such as mental health literacy, child abuse, or online bullying. Use the same topic you shared last week. (Note: You are not required to use this topic when you get to your actual dissertation or DSW capstone project.)
In 3–4 sentences, analyze the ontological, axiological, epistemological, and methodological assumptions when viewing the topic from a logical positivist paradigm.
In 3–4 sentences, analyze the ontological, axiological, epistemological, and methodological assumptions when viewing the topic from an interpretivist paradigm.
Explain how Walden University’s mission of social change influences the axiology of the research you will conduct as a student.
Identity the lens you may use for your capstone, and evaluate one advantage of using that lens to conceptualize your topic.
Identify an example from one of the Faculty videos that helps inform your thinking about your own research. Explain why this example resonates with you
