Soft Systems Methodology in Education: Applying a Critical Realist Approach to Research on Teacher Education

This book explores the application of Soft Systems Methodology in educational research as a qualitative research tool to generate theory and identify the mechanisms that engender the behaviors and discourse of social groups. It is grounded within the literature from philosophy and science and uses a research strategy called 'Worldview, Metaphor, and Power of Social Objects (Womposo)' to study the practicum experience of teachers in training. The methodology includes creating rich pictures and diagrams, as well as images representing different stakeholders' views of the whole system, to provide a holistic understanding of the research topic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 381 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the utilization of Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as a qualitative research tool in educational research, with a specific focus on generating theory. By drawing upon the rich literature from philosophy and science, the approach is firmly rooted in the ontology and epistemology of critical realism. The authors recognize the significance of systems thinking, acknowledging that emergent features arise at higher levels of complexity within a hierarchical structure and that unintended consequences can arise when making decisions in complex situations involving interdependent components.

At the heart of the book lies the formulation of a research strategy known as 'Worldview, Metaphor, and Power of Social Objects (Womposo).' This innovative approach is applied to a comprehensive research study on the practicum experience of teachers in training. Central to the methodology is the creation of rich and detailed pictures and diagrams, which serve as powerful visual representations of the complex systems under investigation. Furthermore, the book includes captivating illustrations that depict different stakeholders' perspectives on the entire system, providing a holistic understanding of the metaphors at play.

Designed with postgraduate students and researchers in education and other social science programs in mind, this book offers a valuable resource for those seeking to explore the application of SSM in qualitative research. It provides a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the theoretical foundations, methodological approaches, and practical applications of SSM, making it an essential tool for scholars and practitioners alike.

Weight: 623g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030992248
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022