This book provides a comprehensive overview of personal construct psychology (PCP) that will help researchers understand the why's, what's and how's of conducting a rigorous constructivist research project.
From the theoretical underpinnings of constructivist approaches to the practical values of these techniques, these three expert authors explain how to conduct interpretative, constructivist research from inception to completion. Key topics include:
- Understanding research philosophies and paradigms
- Constructing and exploring personal realities
- Establishing effective research procedures
- Evaluating grids, mapping, narrative and other research methods
- Managing the practicalities of fieldwork
- Analysing and presenting data
With activities and procedural examples from a wide range of disciplines woven throughout the text and two special chapters featuring in-depth case studies from a variety of constructivist researchers, this book helps readers grasp the tools, designs, and opportunities of interpretative research.
An essential companion for both researchers and practitioners looking to understand people's values, attitudes, beliefs, perceptions, or motivations!
Autorentext
Working across a range of disciplines (Psychology, Health & Social Care and Pharmacy), Pam Denicolo, a Professor Emerita from the University of Reading, a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences, and an Honorary Member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, has wide-ranging experience both of using a range of research approaches and methods and of teaching how to use them well to a broad range of students and professionals world-wide. She has served on executive boards and committees of national and international learned societies and organisations devoted to research and teaching. She continues to publish widely student support materials, books, and journal articles on research because she remains passionately committed to mentoring and coaching newer researchers and academics.
Inhalt
Part I: Making decisions based on philosophy, theory and project purpose
Chapter 1: Introduction and orientation to constructivist research
Chapter 2: Understanding the nature of constructivist approaches
Chapter 3: Linking philosophy and theory to research purpose
Chapter 4: Constructing personal realities
Part II: Practicalities of Engaging in Constructivist Research
Chapter 5: Exploring personal realities
Chapter 6: Setting the climate for effective research encounters
Chapter 7: An evaluation of a range of potential research techniques
Chapter 8: An evaluation of a range of potential research designs
Chapter 9: Realities and practicalities in managing fieldwork
Chapter 10: Data analysis, meaning interpretation and management/presentation issues
Part III: How others have used PCP - sample research cases
Chapter 11: Cases using different designs
Chapter 12: Constructive alternatives, psychic mirrors and narrative turns: reflections on a lifetime as a personal construct researcher