If a researcher is trying to decide whether or not to gather data based on the participants opinions or to use a more objective measure, which aspect of research philosophy is being considered?

Question

a.
Methodology

b.
Epistemology

c.
Ontology

d.
Axiology

Answer 1

The aspect of research philosophy being considered in this case is b. Epistemology.

Epistemology deals with the nature and scope of knowledge, including how knowledge is acquired and what counts as valid knowledge. In this instance, the researcher must decide whether to rely on subjective opinions (which are more interpretive) or objective measures (which tend to be quantifiable and less prone to personal bias).