RSE4801
Assignment 3
DUE: 14 AUGUST 2026
, RSE4801: RESEARCH IN EDUCATION
Assignment 3: Learning Unit 3 - Research Paradigms
Lecturer: Dr TR Mkhize
Open date: Friday, 17 2026
Due date: Friday, 14 August 2026
Question 1
1.1 Definition of a research paradigm (3)
A research paradigm is a basic belief system and theoretical framework consisting of a related set
of assumptions about the nature of reality (ontology), the nature and acquisition of knowledge
(epistemology), the strategy of inquiry (methodology) and the specific techniques used to generate
and analyse data (methods) (Rehman & Alharthi, 2016). It functions as a worldview or lens
through which a researcher understands what reality is, what can be known about it and how that
reality should be studied. A paradigm is not simply a technical choice; it is a philosophical position
that a researcher commits to, often as part of a wider community of scholars who share similar
beliefs about what constitutes valid and valuable knowledge (RSE4801 Study Guide, Unit 3).
1.2 Five aspects of my research influenced by the paradigm (5)
The paradigm adopted by a researcher shapes almost every subsequent decision made in a research
project. Five specific aspects that are influenced by the paradigm are:
● The formulation of the research question, problem and purpose - the paradigm determines
what is regarded as a valid or answerable question.
● The choice of research type or design - for example, whether an experimental, survey, case
study, ethnographic or action research design is appropriate.
● The selection of methods of data generation - whether data are generated through
questionnaires and experiments (quantitative) or through interviews, observation and
documents (qualitative).
Assignment 3
DUE: 14 AUGUST 2026
, RSE4801: RESEARCH IN EDUCATION
Assignment 3: Learning Unit 3 - Research Paradigms
Lecturer: Dr TR Mkhize
Open date: Friday, 17 2026
Due date: Friday, 14 August 2026
Question 1
1.1 Definition of a research paradigm (3)
A research paradigm is a basic belief system and theoretical framework consisting of a related set
of assumptions about the nature of reality (ontology), the nature and acquisition of knowledge
(epistemology), the strategy of inquiry (methodology) and the specific techniques used to generate
and analyse data (methods) (Rehman & Alharthi, 2016). It functions as a worldview or lens
through which a researcher understands what reality is, what can be known about it and how that
reality should be studied. A paradigm is not simply a technical choice; it is a philosophical position
that a researcher commits to, often as part of a wider community of scholars who share similar
beliefs about what constitutes valid and valuable knowledge (RSE4801 Study Guide, Unit 3).
1.2 Five aspects of my research influenced by the paradigm (5)
The paradigm adopted by a researcher shapes almost every subsequent decision made in a research
project. Five specific aspects that are influenced by the paradigm are:
● The formulation of the research question, problem and purpose - the paradigm determines
what is regarded as a valid or answerable question.
● The choice of research type or design - for example, whether an experimental, survey, case
study, ethnographic or action research design is appropriate.
● The selection of methods of data generation - whether data are generated through
questionnaires and experiments (quantitative) or through interviews, observation and
documents (qualitative).
