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A Non-binary Methodological Manoeuvre: Expert Quantitative and Novice Qualitative Researcher

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Constructing Methodology for Qualitative Research

Part of the book series: Palgrave Studies in Education Research Methods ((PSERM))

Abstract

Mann presents a reflection on her transitional learning journey from natural scientist towards engaging with education research and the struggles with consolidating a positivist ontology in a constructivist environment. Mann explores what it means to have a theoretical perspective that allows for both quantitative and qualitative inquiry through anecdotes from her own history from childhood to early career researcher. Importantly, she uses the ‘expert’ stance to highlight the similarities between the learning journey towards seemingly dichotomous methodologies, and provides insights for other novice researchers in how to navigate a non-linear and complex maze of their journey. Finally, Mann contemplates on how having a ‘non-binary’ perspective can benefit in a world where seemingly incongruent ideas and experiences overlap.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Education and the Arts, CQUniversity Australia, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia

    Gemma Mann

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  1. Gemma Mann
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. School of Education and the Arts, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Australia

    Bobby Harreveld

  2. School of Education and the Arts, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia

    Mike Danaher

  3. North Rockhampton Campus, Central Queensland University, North Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia

    Celeste Lawson

  4. Central Queensland University , Townsville, Queensland, Australia

    Bruce Allen Knight

  5. Central Queensland University, Rockhampton North, Queensland, Australia

    Gillian Busch

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Mann, G. (2016). A Non-binary Methodological Manoeuvre: Expert Quantitative and Novice Qualitative Researcher. In: Harreveld, B., Danaher, M., Lawson, C., Knight, B., Busch, G. (eds) Constructing Methodology for Qualitative Research. Palgrave Studies in Education Research Methods. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-59943-8_2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-59943-8_2

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  • Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-137-59942-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-137-59943-8

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