Researching Real- World Problems

Chapter One

We are at the very beginning of time for the human race. It is not unreasonable that we grapple with problems Our responsibility is to do what we can, learn what we can, improve the solutions, and pass them on. - Richard Feynman
O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

The Challenge

We may live in a world riddled with problems, but we also live in a world full of problem solvers in a world dedicated to learning, changing, improving and evolving

O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

The Potential of Research

Research can be the key to informed decision-making related to problem solving It can be instrumental in gathering data related to

understanding

problems finding solutions implementing change evaluating success

O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

The Potential of Research

Researching real-world problems is about research that is local, grounded, practical and responsive to everyday needs Local or national government, nongovernment organizations, aid agencies, communities, corporations, and workplaces in general, can all benefit from problem-based research

O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

Levels of Change

Research into real-world problems can open up possibilities for change at the level of
professional
practice programmes policy organizational

development

culture
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O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

Problems and Complexity

Real-world problems, and the contexts in which they sit, tend to be messy, complex, and multifaceted - posing a number of challenges to the reflective researcher

O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

Problems and Complexity

O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

Challenges in conducting realworld problem research

Researchers of real-world problems need to consider

the

challenge of conducting research in the field how to define a research team whether they are working on, for, or with others challenges they will face if conducting research in their own organization

O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

The Research Process

As well as an ability to think strategically, preparing to research real-world problems requires

solid

foundations being prepared to delve into problem situations being prepared to do what it takes to make a real difference
O'Leary, Z. (2005) RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS: A Guide to Methods of Inquiry. London: Sage. Chapter 1.

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