Naturalistic Inquiry

About this book

Showing how science is limited by its dominant mode of investigation Lincoln and Guba propose an alternative paradigma "naturalistic" rather than "rationalistic" method of inquiryin which the investigator avoids manipulating research outcomes. A "paradigm shift" is under way in many fields they contend and go on to describe the different assumptions of the two approaches regarding the nature of reality subject-object interaction the possibility of generalization the concept of causality and the role of values. The authors also offer guidance for research in the field (where they say naturalistic inquiry always takes place). Useful tips are given for example on "designing" a study as it unfolds establishing "trustworthiness " and writing a case report. This book helps researchers "both to understand and to do naturalistic inquiry." Of particular interest to educational researchers it is valuable for all social scientists involved with questions of qualitative and quantitative methodology.