Overview of the Research Process

Abstract

Pacifica Graduate Institute recognizes that that all research, regardless of how objective it purports to be, grows out of a particular philosophical stance that defines the possibilities and limits of research. All research is informed by this philosophical stance. This stance constitutes one's position vis-à-vis the nature of reality (ontology) and human knowledge (epistemology). The recognition and understanding of one's own philosophical stance is an invaluable resource in designing, conducting, and evaluating research. Pacifica, therefore, strongly encourages students to examine their epistemological position vis-à-vis the nature of reality and human knowledge. In examining their own approach to research, students need to consider not only the nature of their particular research interests and their philosophical assumptions about psychology in general, but also their own personal temperaments. Clearly students' approach to research is significantly influenced by their research question.