According to positivism, we learn best when we observe, hear, or measure the world around us. It holds that science and facts provide us with the truth. Although post-positivism acknowledges the importance of facts, it also maintains that we cannot know everything with certainty. It serves as a reminder that mistakes are inevitable and that we should never stop learning and asking questions. Positivism and Post Positivist approach to research are the best examples of quantitative Vs qualitative research methodology. Post-positivism is a refined method that acknowledges biases in whatever method is being chosen and is, therefore, more interpretive. 

Candidates who are preparing for the UGC NET exam are advised to read this blog properly to get detailed information about Positivism and Post Positivism in Research. As per UGC NET previous year’s papers, important questions were asked on this topic in previous years.

In this article the learners will be able to know the following:

• Positivism Research
• Characteristics of Positivist Research Methods
• Post-Positivist Research
• Characteristics of Post-Positivist Research Methods
• Difference Between Positivism and Post Positivistic Approach to Research

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What is Positivism Research?

Positivism is a philosophical stance and an approach to research that emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence and scientific methods in understanding the world. It emerged in the 19th century as a response to earlier philosophical and theological approaches, aiming to establish a clear methodology for acquiring knowledge based on observation, experimentation, and verification.

Characteristics of Positivist Research Methods

Positivist research is one method of researching the world through facts and science. It assists individuals in seeking answers by observing things that are visible, measurable, or testable. The approach is employed to acquire knowledge about how things operate in a straightforward and equitable manner. The characteristics will be helpful in understanding positivist approach in research.

Objective and Neutral

Positivist research is conducted without allowing emotions to interfere. Researchers make an effort to remain impartial and impartial. They examine the facts and not what they hope or think is true. This enables them to arrive at honest and transparent answers.

Based on Facts and Evidence

This kind of research employs actual facts that are observable or measurable. Researchers gather evidence such as numbers, data, and observations. They do not guess or fabricate answers. This makes their work solid and credible.

Uses Experiments and Tests

Positivist researchers conduct experiments to test out their ideas. They pose questions and then try them out to observe what happens. If the same thing continues to happen repeatedly, they can be sure that it is true. Experiments serve to demonstrate what is real and what is not.

Seeks General Rules

In positivist research, individuals attempt to identify rules applicable in many instances. They observe patterns and seek those things that occur the same way all the time. Such rules assist us in comprehending the workings of the world. For instance, gravity attracts objects downwards regardless of your location.

Can Be Checked and Repeated

One significant aspect of positivist research is that other people can test it as well. If another person replicates the same experiment, they should obtain the same outcome. This indicates that the research is accurate and reliable. It also teaches people more by collaborating.

What is Post-Positivist Research?

Post-positivist research methods accepts concepts to be relevant only if they support action. While still valuing empirical evidence and scientific methods, post-positivism recognizes the influence of subjectivity, context, and interpretation in the research process. 

Characteristics of Post-Positivist Research Methods

Post-positivist research is a method by which people research and learn about the world based on both facts and ideas. It has faith that we can never completely know everything for certain, but we can arrive at it with the help of tools, questions, and varying perspectives. Such research employs science, but also recognizes that human beings and their minds are significant as well.

Belief That Truth Can Be Approached, But Not Fully Known

Post-positivist researchers believe we can attempt to discover the truth, but possibly never know everything. They believe we can get extremely close by taking careful observations and asking astute questions. They believe we should always keep an open mind to learn new things. This is because our tools and concepts can sometimes overlook minute details.

Use of Both Numbers and Words (Mixed Methods)

These researchers prefer to use both figures (such as scores or measurements) and words (such as opinions or anecdotes). They feel that using both makes us see things more clearly. Figures can indicate facts, but words can tell us about feelings and reasons. When we combine them, we have a better idea of what is going on.

Belief That People Have Bias

Post-positivist researchers understand that each person has his/her own ideas and emotions, even the scientists. These ideas at times may alter the way we perceive things. Therefore, they attempt to be cautious and equitable in their work. They also explain to others how they conducted the research so that it can be verified.

Application of Theories to Direct Research

They also apply theories, large ideas which explain things. Theories provide them with a plan or map to guide their study. These plans inform them what to search for and how to interpret it. If a theory fails to fit, they can modify it or use a superior one.

Practice Careful Testing and Observation

Post-positivist researchers test a lot and observe things closely. They want to ensure their findings are correct or as correct as possible. They test repeatedly to determine if the same thing occurs every time. This allows them to trust their findings more.

Willing to Change Ideas on the Basis of New Information

They believe that learning never stops. If they find new facts, they are ready to change their ideas. They don’t think being wrong is bad—it just means we are learning. This makes their research stronger and more honest.

Irrespective of the research types, research ethics are to be followed. The differences between positivism and post positivism approach to research has been stated below.

Conclusion

The Positivist approach of research emphasizes objectivity, empirical evidence, and the development of general laws, while the Post-Positivist approach acknowledges the limitations of strict objectivity and incorporates subjective experiences and context into the research process. Both approaches have strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them depends on the nature of the research questions and the goals of the study. Researchers should carefully consider their philosophical stance and methodological choices to conduct meaningful and rigorous research in various fields. Both positivism and post positivist approach to research pdf is available at testbook. Positivism and post positivistic approach to research has been coveted with differences amongst them as well.

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