A researcher's tale: dealing with epistemological divergence
Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management
ISSN: 1746-5648
Article publication date: 20 November 2007
Abstract
Purpose
The paper's purpose is to explore a theoretical and methodological dilemma.
Design/methodology/approach
Commencing doctoral research, and committed to an orthodox grounded theory approach, a unique story was uncovered which, to do it and the research justice, required an alternative form of representation. Intuition decreed that this should be narrative. However, grounded theory and narrative entail epistemologically and ontologically incommensurate paradigms. The paper seeks to consider whether inclusion of the unique story would compromise, or subvert, the already emergent grounded theory. An exploration of the relationship between different epistemological and ontological traditions is also to be made, based on the assumption that method “slurring,” and a more eclectic approach to using incommensurate paradigms, may be valuable.
Findings
In transcribing and coding data using strictly orthodox grounded theory methods, the researcher runs the risk of “stripping” the research story of some critical dimension(s). However, combining a narrative approach with that of grounded theory, the paper allows for the representation of an atypical “Maverick” case, along‐side other more typical cases.
Originality/value
The paper points out, to the early career qualitative researcher in particular, that it is legitimate to combine seemingly incommensurate methodologies, notably where not to do so would result in the loss of enriching and powerful insights into basic social processes.
Keywords
Citation
Bryant, J. and Lasky, B. (2007), "A researcher's tale: dealing with epistemological divergence", Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management, Vol. 2 No. 3, pp. 179-193. https://doi.org/10.1108/17465640710835346
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited