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Delving into Methodology

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Authentic Professional Learning

Part of the book series: Professional and Practice-based Learning ((PPBL,volume 2))

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Abstract

This chapter on methodology begins by reviewing the increasing dissent amongst social researchers about close adherence to research method. I then outline my own position on method in this research, drawing on Mats Alvesson’s argument about the need for “reflexive interpretation” in most empirical research (Alvesson & Sköldberg, 2000; Alvesson, 2002). Following this theoretical and reflexive positioning, issues of quality that influenced the research design and choice of methods are described. The design involves an adapted and extended version of Amedeo Giorgi’s methodology, with some influence from Max van Manen.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    This research continues to be validated with professionals in different contexts.

  2. 2.

    Some of the detail referred to in this chapter was obtained through participation in a live-in research workshop with Giorgi and is not widely available in print.

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Correspondence to Ann Webster-Wright .

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Webster-Wright, A. (2010). Delving into Methodology. In: Authentic Professional Learning. Professional and Practice-based Learning, vol 2. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-3947-7_4

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