Engage in Practice Informed Research: A Guide for Researchers
As a researcher, it is essential to engage in practice informed research. This type of research involves incorporating both existing theories and practical knowledge in the development and execution of research studies. Doing so ensures that research outcomes are not only relevant but also applicable to the real world.
Why Engage in Practice Informed Research?
Practice informed research is essential for several reasons. First, it helps researchers to better understand the context in which their research is taking place. This, in turn, enables them to design studies that are more relevant to the needs of the people or organizations they are studying.
Secondly, practice informed research helps researchers to identify gaps in existing research and practice. By doing so, they can develop studies that address these gaps and contribute to the growth of knowledge in their respective fields.
How to Engage in Practice Informed Research?
To engage in practice informed research, researchers must do the following:
1. Conduct a literature review
Before developing a research study, it is important to conduct a literature review to identify existing theories and practices in the field. This helps researchers to identify gaps in knowledge and practice that their research can address.
2. Identify stakeholders
Identifying stakeholders in a research study is crucial. These can be individuals, organizations or communities that are affected by the research outcomes. Engaging with stakeholders ensures that research outcomes are relevant and applicable to the real world.
3. Use a mixed-methods approach
A mixed-methods approach involves using both qualitative and quantitative methods in a research study. This approach allows researchers to collect both numerical data (e.g., surveys) and narrative data (e.g., interviews), providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic.
4. Analyze and interpret data in context
Analysis and interpretation of data in context is critical for practice informed research. Data must be contextualized to understand its meaning in real-world situations. Researchers must take into account the various factors that may have influenced the data, such as cultural, social, and economic factors.
Conclusion
Engaging in practice informed research ensures that research outcomes are relevant, applicable and useful in the real world. It involves incorporating both existing theories and practical knowledge in the development and execution of research studies. To engage in practice informed research, researchers must conduct a literature review, identify stakeholders, use a mixed-methods approach, and analyze and interpret data in context. By doing so, researchers can contribute to the growth of knowledge in their respective fields and make a meaningful impact in the real world.
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