Epistemological Influence on Choice of Research Methods - Essay Example

There are many definitions of epistemology but a basic and general definition is the understanding of knowledge. Epistemology seeks to explore or evaluate how knowledge is acquired, how much knowledge is understood, and knowledge is constructed within the realms of the human mind. Epistemology tries to explain the relationship between the depth of human understanding of a particular subject and the reliability of that understanding. It seeks to answer the question of how what is known can be measured.

The research aims at analyzing objects of nature to come up with a helpful conclusion. The researcher is thus at the discretion of using personal beliefs, understanding, and justification to influence the outcome of the research findings. A report by the University of Oulu claims that the researcher is in a position to “influence directly only the epistemological basis of the research, not the evaluator’s bias, but of course, clear criteria stated by the researcher makes it more valid for the reader to evaluate the trustworthiness of the research” (University of Oulu, 2003, p. 1). Seale echoes the same sentiments “it is true that certain epistemological and theoretical positions have influenced the character of both quantitative and qualitative research” (Seale, 2004 p. 506).

The truthfulness of research is very important, especially in the field of public health. For instance, I intend to use Quantitative analysis for my dissertation aims at investigating public awareness of thalassemia syndromes in Jordan's Capital – Amman. The study will collect information in form of questionnaires. Certainly, the questionnaires will be a reflection of my epistemological foundation. The questions will be formulated based on an understanding of the topic. Although a lot of work on literature review will be done, the interpretation of the literature work will depend on two main factors. First, it will depend on the line of thought of the authors of the literature that I will review. Secondly, it will depend on my interpretation of the literary work, which in turn will depend on personal knowledge.

Arguably, my epistemological understanding will have the greatest influence on my study when it comes to the interpretation of the questionnaires. I will interpret the answers to questionnaires depending on my knowledge, and understanding of reality, beliefs, and personal opinions. It is however important that a personal stand on a particular subject of study be given to give the users of research results the freedom to use their judgment (Bryman & Bell, 2007).

In conclusion, epistemology refers to the science of knowledge and the realms of truth. The researcher has the discretion to determine the discourse of research and ultimately the research results depending on the epistemological foundation. My epistemological foundation will certainly influence my research on measuring the public's awareness of thalassemia syndromes in Amman. Therefore, it will be important to do thorough and wide research on the subject, and approach the study with an open unbiased mind.