Rigour and Complexity in Educational Research
·What does it mean to engage in rigorous research?
·What does a researcher need to know to produce such research?
·What is specifically involved in multiple method bricolage research?
In an era where talk abounds about scientific rigour and evidence-based research in education, this groundbreaking book presents a new and compelling examination of these concepts. Arguing that much of what is promoted as 'rigorous inquiry' is reductionistic and ultimately misleading, the authors present an alternative to such approaches to educational inquiry.
Rigour and Complexity in Educational Research provides readers with an understanding of the complexities of educational research, and of the interrelationships between multiple methods, theoretical perspectives, philosophical orientations, social positionalities, modes of power, and narrative strategies.
The authors use the French term 'bricolage' to signify the use of a variety of research tools and ways of seeing. The book then constructs a new conception of rigour in research that is culturally sensitive and socially transformative, and shows researchers how to use multiple methods. After developing this approach, the authors devise a practical process of initiating researchers into the bricolage, and provide concrete examples and guidelines for using this innovative approach.
This book is important reading for academics, researchers and students undertaking education and social science courses.