Epistemological Implications of a ‘Convergent Parallel Mixed Methods’ Research Design

Abstract

The philosophy of an educational research project is important to reflect upon and declare, but can often be left unexplained. In order to address this area of thought, this study discusses the implications of the epistemological paradigm of a ‘convergent parallel mixed methods’ research design. An actual research piece was chosen to assist in bringing focus to the study. How the epistemological paradigm impacts upon data collection and analysis techniques, and therefore the conclusions of the research, was examined. The design was then critiqued from a Biblical Christian perspective, including ideas for how it might be reformulated and used within a Biblical epistemological paradigm. A significant aspect of such a way of thinking is that educational research is more than increasing knowledge for knowledge sake, but also to grow personally and professionally in an understanding of God: who He is, of His creation, including humanity, and the interrelationships between each of these.