Methods of Inquiry in Research
In research, the methods of inquiry play a crucial role in conducting controlled investigations, solving theoretical and practical problems, generating discoveries, and advancing scientific knowledge. This article explores different methods of inquiry used in research, the inquiry process, the purpose of methods of inquiry, the development of models of inquiry, and specific models of scientific inquiry in social sciences.
Different Methods of Inquiry
Deduction, induction, abduction, hypothetical-deductive approaches, multiple working hypotheses, mixed methods research, practitioner inquiry/action research, and arts-based research are some of the different methods of inquiry used in research. Deduction involves deriving specific conclusions from general principles, while induction involves deriving general principles from specific observations. Abduction involves generating plausible explanations for observed phenomena. Hypothetical-deductive approaches involve formulating hypotheses and testing them through experimentation. Multiple working hypotheses involve considering multiple explanations for a phenomenon. Mixed methods research combines qualitative and quantitative methods in a single study. Practitioner inquiry/action research involves using qualitative and/or quantitative practices to understand and improve practice. Arts-based research considers the arts as valid ways of knowing and doing research.
The Inquiry Process
Inquiry is a process of investigation that involves asking questions and seeking answers. It is a systematic approach to research. Researchers engage in the inquiry process to gain a deeper understanding of a subject, explore new avenues of knowledge, and contribute to the existing body of literature. The inquiry process typically includes formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, designing research methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on the findings.
Purpose of Methods of Inquiry
Methods of inquiry are used by scholars to conduct controlled investigations and experiments, solve theoretical and practical problems, generate discoveries, and advance scientific knowledge. These methods provide researchers with structured frameworks for conducting research and ensure the reliability and validity of their findings. By employing specific methods of inquiry, researchers can systematically investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, and contribute to the cumulative knowledge in their respective fields.
Development of Models of Inquiry
The philosophy of science has contributed to the development of models of inquiry. These models provide a conceptual framework for understanding the process of scientific investigation. Some of the key models of inquiry include deduction, induction, abduction, and hypothetical-deductive approaches. Deduction involves deriving specific conclusions from general principles, while induction involves deriving general principles from specific observations. Abduction focuses on generating plausible explanations for observed phenomena. Hypothetical-deductive approaches involve formulating hypotheses and systematically testing them through experimentation.
Specific Models of Scientific Inquiry in Social Sciences
In social sciences, specific models of inquiry include multiple working hypotheses. This model recognizes that complex phenomena may have multiple explanations, and researchers should consider various hypotheses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject under investigation. By exploring multiple working hypotheses, researchers can generate new concepts, hypotheses, and theories that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the social sciences.
Sources:
- Typeset.io. (n.d.). What are different Methods of Inquiry? | 4 Answers from Research papers. Retrieved from https://typeset.io/questions/what-are-different-methods-of-inquiry-ac6381ea-170e-22c2-3876-af36a62d7ffd
- CUNY Lehman College. (n.d.). Inquiry Process – Writing Research Papers – Research Guides at CUNY Lehman College. Retrieved from https://libguides.lehman.edu/c.php?g=1025696&p=7430614
- Coccia, M. (2018). An Introduction to the Methods of Inquiry in Social Sciences. Journal of Social and Administrative Sciences, 5(2), 116-126. Retrieved from https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3219016
FAQs
Methods of Inquiry in Research
What are the different methods of inquiry used in research?
There are various methods of inquiry used in research, including deduction, induction, abduction, hypothetical-deductive approaches, multiple working hypotheses, mixed methods research, practitioner inquiry/action research, and arts-based research. Each method offers a unique approach to investigating and understanding phenomena.
How does the inquiry process contribute to research?
The inquiry process plays a vital role in research as it involves asking questions, seeking answers, and systematically investigating a topic of interest. By following the inquiry process, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of their subject, explore new knowledge, and contribute to the existing body of literature.
What is the purpose of methods of inquiry in research?
The purpose of methods of inquiry is to provide scholars with structured approaches to conducting controlled investigations and experiments. These methods help researchers solve theoretical and practical problems, generate discoveries, and advance scientific knowledge in their respective fields.
How have models of inquiry developed in the philosophy of science?
The philosophy of science has contributed to the development of models of inquiry. These models, such as deduction, induction, abduction, and hypothetical-deductive approaches, serve as conceptual frameworks for understanding the scientific investigation process. They provide researchers with systematic ways to formulate hypotheses, test them, and draw conclusions based on empirical evidence.
What are specific models of scientific inquiry in the social sciences?
In the social sciences, specific models of inquiry include multiple working hypotheses. This model recognizes that complex phenomena often have multiple possible explanations. By considering and exploring various hypotheses, researchers can generate new concepts, hypotheses, and theories, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the social sciences.
How do different methods of inquiry complement each other in research?
Different methods of inquiry can be complementary approaches that foster knowledge creation within and between research fields. Researchers may employ a combination of methods, such as mixed methods research or practitioner inquiry/action research, to gain a comprehensive understanding of a research problem or phenomenon. Each method brings its unique strengths and perspectives to the investigation process.
How does arts-based research contribute to the methods of inquiry?
Arts-based research considers the arts as valid ways of knowing and doing research. It recognizes the value of artistic expression, such as visual arts, music, or performance, in generating insights and understanding complex phenomena. Arts-based research offers alternative approaches to inquiry that go beyond traditional scientific methods.
What role do methods of inquiry play in generating new knowledge and theories?
Methods of inquiry are instrumental in generating new knowledge and theories. By employing systematic and rigorous approaches to research, scholars can explore new concepts, test hypotheses, and develop theories that contribute to the advancement of their respective fields. Methods of inquiry provide researchers with the tools to conduct reliable and valid investigations, leading to meaningful contributions to the body of knowledge.