RSE4801
Assignment 3 2026
Unique number:
Due date: 14 August 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Meaning of a Research Paradigm
A research paradigm is a broad way of thinking that guides how a researcher
understands reality, knowledge, values and the process of investigation. It provides
the beliefs and assumptions used when deciding what should be studied and how
the study should be conducted (Guba & Lincoln, 1994). The chosen paradigm
influences the research questions, design, methods of collecting information and
interpretation of findings. It also guides the researcher when deciding what counts as
reliable and valuable knowledge within the study (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). A
clear paradigm therefore creates consistency between the purpose, methods,
evidence and conclusions of a research project.
, QUESTION 1
1.1 Meaning of a Research Paradigm
A research paradigm is a broad way of thinking that guides how a researcher
understands reality, knowledge, values and the process of investigation. It provides
the beliefs and assumptions used when deciding what should be studied and how
the study should be conducted (Guba & Lincoln, 1994). The chosen paradigm
influences the research questions, design, methods of collecting information and
interpretation of findings. It also guides the researcher when deciding what counts as
reliable and valuable knowledge within the study (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). A
clear paradigm therefore creates consistency between the purpose, methods,
evidence and conclusions of a research project.
1.2 Five Aspects Influenced by the Paradigm
Research Question
The paradigm guides how I write my research question because it helps me decide
whether I want to measure facts, understand people’s experiences or study a social
problem (Mkhize, 2026). It also keeps the question linked to the kind of knowledge I
want to gain (Nzama, 2026).
Purpose of the Study
The paradigm affects what I want the study to achieve because some studies
measure results, while others try to understand people’s views and everyday
experiences (Nzama, 2026). It helps me explain why the study matters and how the
findings may help others (Mkhize, 2026).
Research Design
My paradigm guides the research design because different designs suit different
kinds of studies and information (Nzama, 2026). A survey may be suitable when I
need numbers, while a case study may be better when I need detailed information
about people’s experiences (Mkhize, 2026).
Data Collection
Assignment 3 2026
Unique number:
Due date: 14 August 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Meaning of a Research Paradigm
A research paradigm is a broad way of thinking that guides how a researcher
understands reality, knowledge, values and the process of investigation. It provides
the beliefs and assumptions used when deciding what should be studied and how
the study should be conducted (Guba & Lincoln, 1994). The chosen paradigm
influences the research questions, design, methods of collecting information and
interpretation of findings. It also guides the researcher when deciding what counts as
reliable and valuable knowledge within the study (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). A
clear paradigm therefore creates consistency between the purpose, methods,
evidence and conclusions of a research project.
, QUESTION 1
1.1 Meaning of a Research Paradigm
A research paradigm is a broad way of thinking that guides how a researcher
understands reality, knowledge, values and the process of investigation. It provides
the beliefs and assumptions used when deciding what should be studied and how
the study should be conducted (Guba & Lincoln, 1994). The chosen paradigm
influences the research questions, design, methods of collecting information and
interpretation of findings. It also guides the researcher when deciding what counts as
reliable and valuable knowledge within the study (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). A
clear paradigm therefore creates consistency between the purpose, methods,
evidence and conclusions of a research project.
1.2 Five Aspects Influenced by the Paradigm
Research Question
The paradigm guides how I write my research question because it helps me decide
whether I want to measure facts, understand people’s experiences or study a social
problem (Mkhize, 2026). It also keeps the question linked to the kind of knowledge I
want to gain (Nzama, 2026).
Purpose of the Study
The paradigm affects what I want the study to achieve because some studies
measure results, while others try to understand people’s views and everyday
experiences (Nzama, 2026). It helps me explain why the study matters and how the
findings may help others (Mkhize, 2026).
Research Design
My paradigm guides the research design because different designs suit different
kinds of studies and information (Nzama, 2026). A survey may be suitable when I
need numbers, while a case study may be better when I need detailed information
about people’s experiences (Mkhize, 2026).
Data Collection
