Toward an Alternative Research Paradigm for Small/Rural Schools: Beyond an Approximated Reality

Russel L. Dobson; Judith E. Dobson

Article

Toward an Alternative Research Paradigm for Small/Rural Schools: Beyond an Approximated Reality

Authors

- Russel L. Dobson
- Judith E. Dobson

Abstract

This paper, based in part on the work of Thomas Kuhn, argues that most research efforts relative to rural/small schools are based in "normal science" which means research firmly based upon previous scientific achievements; a kind of stockpiling of knowledge, that supplies the foundation for further practice. This preconceived reality of researchers attempts to force the nature of rural/small schools into a relatively inflexible box. A case is presented that at best this body of knowledge represents an approximated reality.

Keywords:

How to Cite: Dobson, R. L. & Dobson, J. E. (1990) “Toward an Alternative Research Paradigm for Small/Rural Schools: Beyond an Approximated Reality”, Journal of Research in Rural Education. 6(3).