This first episode of the series introduces the idea of “exploratory research” (Stebbins, 2001). Exploratory research is a research process that suits projects in their early stages, and/or topics about which little is known. Usually, such studies are “inductive” (and allow discoveries to emerge organically from the data), rather than “deductive” which confirms a hypothesis or theory. Exploration is often conducted by individuals who have a strong personal curiosity or stake in their topics of study. Situating research under the umbrella of exploration allows researchers more freedom and releases them from the traditional requirement of operationalizing or defining all the terms of the study at the beginning. The idea of exploration was inspiring to me when I began my dissertation research on information in the hobby of gourmet cooking, and I conducted my dissertation study in the spirit of an explorer. Additional resources on the concept are below.
Stebbins, R. A. (2001). Exploratory Research in the Social Sciences (1st ed., Vol. 48). SAGE Publications Inc.
Stebbins, R. A. (1997). Exploratory Research as an Antidote to Theoretical Stagnation in Leisure Studies. Loisir et Société, 20(2), 421–434.
ABOUT THE VIDEO SERIES, HEAR! HERE! (IDEAS FOR DOCTORAL STUDENTS)
This video series is a resource for doctoral students (and master's students, too) as they complete the formidable undertaking of a dissertation or thesis. The series offers ideas that are novel, or expresses tried-and-true strategies in new ways. The sundry issues raised in the series all emerged during my own doctoral experience, between 2001-2007, at the University of California, Los Angeles. In the videos, I try to share what I learned, for the benefit of a next generation of students. The series contains many practical tips. Each time I say, "Hear! Here!" listen for the straightforward instructions that follow (and then do it!). The insights are often about the complexities of the research process, pertaining mainly to qualitative studies. While many of the accounts are based in Information Science, the principles are easily applied to other disciplines. The series contains 10 episodes that are “short and sweet,” ranging from 90 seconds to 3 minutes. More episodes are forthcoming. I suggest that all academic supervisors, or teachers of research methods, share these videos with their students and/or discuss the issues raised in the videos in their classes. And, please like, share, and comment—then subscribe to INFIDEOS. Thank you!
