Beyond Selecting a Methodology: Discussing Research Quality, Ethical, and Equity Considerations in Qualitative Engineering Education Research
Conference
Josiam, M, Johnson, TY, Pee, C et al. (2022). Beyond Selecting a Methodology: Discussing Research Quality, Ethical, and Equity Considerations in Qualitative Engineering Education Research
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Josiam, M, Johnson, TY, Pee, C et al. (2022). Beyond Selecting a Methodology: Discussing Research Quality, Ethical, and Equity Considerations in Qualitative Engineering Education Research
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The purpose of this paper is to divulge the complexities embedded within our research team's process of designing a qualitative study focused on understanding marginalized students' experiences in engineering. In this paper, we establish a foundation for fruitful qualitative research, grounded in research quality, ethics, and equity. We discuss how the criteria from these foundational considerations can drive decision making for the various components of a research design. In particular, we focus on decision making around purpose, theory, sampling, and instrumentation. In doing so, we shed light on how each element might be intentionally constructed to a) generate insights on how to disrupt the oppressive environment of engineering education, b) protect vulnerable populations, and c) center participants' voices. In writing this paper, our goal is to provide a transparent account of decisions that can go into designing a qualitative study and implementing a research grant proposal, keeping in mind how our power and privilege influence every decision in the research process.
