A framework that guides how research should be conducted based on philosophical assumptions and methodological approaches is a core concept within scholarly inquiry. This framework encompasses fundamental beliefs about the nature of reality (ontology), how knowledge is acquired (epistemology), the values that inform research (axiology), and the procedures for conducting investigations (methodology). For instance, a researcher subscribing to positivism believes in an objective reality that can be understood through empirical observation and measurement, leading them to employ quantitative methods like experiments and surveys.
The significance of this guiding framework lies in its ability to provide a coherent and consistent approach to research. It shapes the questions asked, the methods used, and the interpretation of results. Historically, shifts in these underlying frameworks have led to scientific revolutions, changing the dominant ways of understanding the world. Understanding the framework informing a study is crucial for evaluating its validity, reliability, and generalizability and interpreting its findings appropriately. Furthermore, explicitly acknowledging the guiding framework enhances the transparency and rigor of the research process.
