Mathapelo Moloi:

Question

The only approaches we use in social research are qualitative and quantitative?
True or False

Match the best description for the core elements based on the positivism paradigm.\( \square \) OntologyA. Scientific inquiry is value-free, objective and neutral.\( \square \) EpistemologyB. A single tangible, external reality that is relatively constant across time and can be known.\( \square \) Axiology\( \square \) MethodologyC. Purpose of research is to predict results, tests theories, relationships and cause-effect relations. Approach is quantitative and methods are experimental and correlational. Use of data gathering instruments are important.D. Knowledge can be verified empirically, is stable and can be generalised. It constitutes hard data that is objective and independent of the values and feelings of the researcher

Answer 1

For the statements provided, here are the best matches based on the positivism paradigm:

1. Ontology \( \square \) B. A single tangible, external reality that is relatively constant across time and can be known.
2. Epistemology \( \square \) D. Knowledge can be verified empirically, is stable and can be generalised. It constitutes hard data that is objective and independent of the values and feelings of the researcher.
3. Axiology \( \square \) A. Scientific inquiry is value-free, objective and neutral.
4. Methodology \( \square \) C. Purpose of research is to predict results, tests theories, relationships and cause-effect relations. Approach is quantitative and methods are experimental and correlational. Use of data gathering instruments are important.

So the final matches are:

• Ontology: B
• Epistemology: D
• Axiology: A
• Methodology: C

As for the statement regarding the approaches used in social research, the answer is False. While qualitative and quantitative approaches are common, there are also mixed methods and other approaches that can be used in social research.