Speaker
Abstract
Despite great efforts, inequities in life expectancy, health, and quality of life are persistent. Scientific revolutions are preceded by paradigm shifts (Kuhn, 1997). To achieve equity for all, we need to understand the current quantitative inquiry paradigms. To do so, quantitative methodological literacy is needed. The proposed presentation Advancing Quantitative Methodologies to Achieve Equity will provide quantitative researchers with the tools to interrogate and advance their quantitative methodologies. In quantitative research, the focus has been almost exclusively on methods. Methodologies, where the term is used, focus on techniques and procedures for specific approaches, such as survey methodology. This limited definition misses the philosophical and societal underpinnings of those approaches, specifically, ontology, epistemology, and axiology as well as social position and how those have limited both theoretical frameworks and research methods deemed useful. The aims of this presentation are: 1) Define research methodologies, present their colonial history, impact on research and persisting inequities, and non-positivist methodologies developed to-date. 2) Introduce a framework that can be used to advance quantitative researchers’ methodologies through a) interrogation of research standpoints, theoretical frameworks, and research methods b) assessing the influences of -isms on research c) practicing inclusive team science and d) Using participatory research methods and 3) Outline steps on how to develop a praxis of advancing quantitative methodologies through practices such as researching back, advancing contextually relevant and theory-driven research driven by liberatory and transformative intent. The long-term goal of this work is to contribute to a paradigm shift in quantitative methodologies by making methodological literacy a key component of researcher education which will subsequently strengthen quantitative research and advance knowledge needed to achieve equity. It will advance methodological and methods pluralism allowing for broadening scientific knowledge. Thus, the proposed presentation aims to present tools to advance methodological literacy needed to achieve equity.
| Oral presentation | Advancing Quantitative Methodologies to Achieve Equity |
|---|---|
| Author | Regine Haardoerfer |
| Affiliation | Emory University |
| Keywords | Equity, non-positivist, quantitative, methodological literacy |
