ISIG research methods seminar
A Schema for Relating and Combining Quantitative, Qualitative, Positivist, and Interpretive Research Methods in the Discipline of Information Systems
Allen Lee
Virginia Commonwealth University and ISIG LSE
Thursday 19 June 2008 1500 - 1700
Fifth Floor, Tower One
Discuss this video on the ISIG discussion blog
In this seminar I will present a paper co-authored with Suprateek Sarker. In it we provide a schema for delineating relationships between some different research methods and combining them in joint research efforts. Behavioural research in information systems is often categorized as quantitative or qualitative, but may also be identified as positivist or interpretive. Our schema for relating and combining different research methods embodies an inductive-deductive dimension, which we present in such a way as to emphasize the formal logic concept of modus tollens, and a subjectivist-objectivist dimension, which uses the distinction, from phenomenological sociology, between first-level constructs and second-level constructs. The schema will go beyond the usual platitudes (e.g., “quantitative research and qualitative research are both legitimate and each has something to contribute” and “the study of information systems can benefit from diverse research approaches”) and instead show how different methods from different research approaches can be combined in the same research effort. A walk-through of the two-dimensional schema, using material from the well known, classic 1983 case study by M. Lynne Markus, will provide a practical “how to” illustration of how to combine quantitative, qualitative, and other research methods.
Professor Allen S. Lee's articles, book chapters, editorials, and conference presentations have examined the use of research methods in the scientific study of information systems, including interpretive, positivist, qualitative, and case study methods. He has given research presentations in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and throughout the United States. Currently he is professor of information systems and associate dean for research and graduate studies in the School of Business at Virginia Commonwealth University. He is also a visiting professor at LSE. He earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Cornell University, the University of California at Berkeley, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A native of New York City's Chinatown, Lee graduated from Public School 23 and Junior High School 22 (both in Manhattan), and from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1970. In December 2004, he retired from the MIS Quarterly editorial board after 15 years, during which he served as associate editor, senior editor, and editor-in-chief.
Please note places will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis - registration is not required.
For any further queries regarding this seminar or to request information about future events please contact Frances White. Research Coordinator.
page last updated 18 March, 2009 ^
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