The long march: a novice researcher's journey of discovery through the research methodological and philosophical maze and haze

Darroch, Fiona and Toleman, Mark (2006) The long march: a novice researcher's journey of discovery through the research methodological and philosophical maze and haze. In: ECRM 2006: The 5th European Conference on Research Methodology for Business and Management Studies, 17-18 July 2006, Dublin, Ireland.

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Abstract

[Abstract]: In this paper we present the experiences of a novice researcher attempting to develop a sound understanding of the philosophical and methodological underpinnings of the Information Systems (IS) research landscape, highlighting the many challenges that must be confronted. We note the widespread nature of the problem and the significant economic and productivity impacts that must necessarily arise from this situation, thus promoting the importance of raising the issue. Following a pragmatic approach, we examine the key areas of confusion especially the definitional, and demonstrate the lack of an accumulated, articulated understanding and the resultant frustration that is the inevitable legacy of such a situation. Our objective is fourfold: to explicitly expose the extent of the confusion regarding terms and understandings of the major building blocks of the IS research landscape; to convey (or remind) senior researchers and dissertation advisors the cost to novices of this confusion; to provide novices with some reassurance and a path upon which they may build an understanding; and a call for action to advance the further clarification and development of the IS methodological base, and thus enhance the IS research effort.

Statistics for this ePrint Item

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Commonwealth Reporting Category E) (Paper)
Refereed:	Yes
Item Status:	Live Archive
Additional Information:	Authors retain copyright.
Faculty / Department / School:	Historic - Faculty of Business - Department of Information Systems
Date Deposited:	11 Jan 2008 04:45
Last Modified:	02 Jul 2013 22:56
Uncontrolled Keywords:	research methodology, philosophy, paradigm, theory, student experience
Fields of Research :	13 Education > 1302 Curriculum and Pedagogy > 130299 Curriculum and Pedagogy not elsewhere classified
URI:	http://eprints.usq.edu.au/id/eprint/3729

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