Heuristic Inquiry Methodology: What Novice Researchers Need to Know
Format Type
Plenary
Format Type
Paper
Start Date
13-1-2021 11:45 AM
End Date
13-1-2021 12:05 PM
Abstract
Heuristic Inquiry ([HI]; Moustakas, 1990) is often misunderstood as a research methodology due to its apparent unconventional approach to exploring a phenomenon that tends to deviate from traditional natural scientific approach in psychological research. Despite its underutilization in the research field, it is arguably an innovative exploratory approach to qualitative research that provides a unique lens through which to discover the deeper meaning of a phenomenon.
Viewing HI through a critical lens, the heuristic process emphasizes the ability to discover significant problems or questions that hold passionate commitment for the researcher. Additionally, HI is a highly structured and step-by-step methodology that outlines key phases that guide the direction of the research process and represent the steps in designing the research. These phases will be given detailed attention in this paper presentation. Therefore, the aim of this paper presentation is to offer suggestions to new researchers who might be interested in using this qualitative methodology in their investigations. I will provide reflections about my own experience working with HI. Further, I will address key challenges faced by researchers using this approach and how to best navigate these challenges without compromising the integrity of the research findings. Lastly, I will provide arguments for the benefits of using HI in counselling psychology research.
Keywords
Heuristic Inquiry, qualitative research, counselling psychology, novice researchers
ORCID ID
orcid.org/oooo-ooo2-6282-1280
ResearcherID
0000-0002-6282-1280
Heuristic Inquiry Methodology: What Novice Researchers Need to Know
Heuristic Inquiry ([HI]; Moustakas, 1990) is often misunderstood as a research methodology due to its apparent unconventional approach to exploring a phenomenon that tends to deviate from traditional natural scientific approach in psychological research. Despite its underutilization in the research field, it is arguably an innovative exploratory approach to qualitative research that provides a unique lens through which to discover the deeper meaning of a phenomenon.
Viewing HI through a critical lens, the heuristic process emphasizes the ability to discover significant problems or questions that hold passionate commitment for the researcher. Additionally, HI is a highly structured and step-by-step methodology that outlines key phases that guide the direction of the research process and represent the steps in designing the research. These phases will be given detailed attention in this paper presentation. Therefore, the aim of this paper presentation is to offer suggestions to new researchers who might be interested in using this qualitative methodology in their investigations. I will provide reflections about my own experience working with HI. Further, I will address key challenges faced by researchers using this approach and how to best navigate these challenges without compromising the integrity of the research findings. Lastly, I will provide arguments for the benefits of using HI in counselling psychology research.