Edu 800 Week 3

Mack, L. (2010). The philosophical underpinnings of educational research. Polyglossia, 19, 5–11. 

Lindsay Mack explores the theoretical framework of research as it applies to education and describes in detail the various patterns related to the field. Mack begins with an explanation of the terms ontology, epistemology, and paradigms and later shifts her focus to the various education theories that have evolved over time, giving an explanation of the ontology and epistemology of each. In addition to providing an explanation of each paradigm, the author also goes on to give some of the main thinkers of that paradigm and lists the philosophies associated with each.  

The strengths of this article lie in the presentation of the information. If one is unfamiliar with the terminology, Mack takes the time to define each term and provide a layman’s example and explanation for each. Upon reading the first paragraphs, one recognizes the detail that is placed on making certain that the readers are able to understand each term associated with education research. Another benefit of the article is that she also provides a contrasting understanding of each by first explaining the tenants, then providing some of the drawbacks to that paradigm as well.

This article was especially enlightening for me as a burgeoning education researcher because I was not sure about the differences between ontology and epistemology at all. I know that this is an article that I will use for reference throughout this program because of the simplistic explanations of the theoretical framework of education research. After reading this article, I feel that I am personally more of a constructivist/ critical researcher. I know that this may change, but at this moment, that is where I stand. I was not sure about which paradigm fit me best until I read this article, which speaks volumes about the value of this article.