Research Method & Design
revised from Selected Methods (1999) J. S. Longstaff Research Cycling; Stages of Inquiry A fundamental process in research methodology can be considered like cycles or stages of inquiry, where cyclic repetitions of reflection and action gradually build up documentations of data and develop these into theoretical frameworks. A typical pattern might proceed as follows (Heron, 1996, pp. 49-52): First Reflection Phase: 1. Topic. Choose the focus/topic of the inquiry.
2. Plan of Action. Based on the review of previous research,
3. Plan for Documentation. Based on previously used documentation methods and may also include documentation methods of one's own creation.
First Action Phase: 1. Explore. Explore the topic through actions and experiences which were planned in the reflection phase. 2. Immerse. Immerse oneself in the experiences of the topic without critically analysing these. 3. Deviate. Allow oneself to spontaneously deviate from the planned actions/experiences. 4. Document. Keep records, document the data which is generated from the experiences. Second and Subsequent Reflection Phases: 1. Review Topic. Choose the focus/topic of the inquiry.
2. Plan of Action. Make a plan of action for the next action phase which will explore the same, or different, aspect of the topic based on analyses of data from the first action phase. 3. Plan for Documentation. Review and modify (as appropriate) the plan for documenting data in the next action phase. 4. Write a Report. Compile these analyses into a written report or summary:
Repeat this cycle of Reflect - Act - Reflect several times (at least 5-8). |