QUESTION 19: what is the difference between the positivist and the interpretativ e approach to project management research?

Positivism in project management research is often identified as the dominant pa radigm for published studies (Bredillet, 2008, smith &Morris, 2007). It is a res earch approach based on belief in universal laws and is often associated with th e quantitative research method. A positivist assumes an objective reality, separ ate from the researcher. The positivist follows the natural science approach to testing theories and hypothesis. He develops theoretical perspective which often a hypothesis before the start of the research. The positivist approach control s the theoretical framework, sampling frame and structure of research. In project management research positivism has been the dominating epistemology; it aims at identifying universal rules and guidelines. The positivist conducts r esearch in value free manner using quantitative method and other means to show a ctive objectivity. (Saunders et al 2007). He also believes he can reach a full understanding of his work based on experiments and observation. He also tends to reduce everything to abstract and universal principles, which tends to fragment human experience rather than treat it as a complex whole. (Ryan, 2006). In his objectivity he assumes one reality using the traditional, scientific approaches and then the quantitative method of data research. The positivist researchers a re good in identifying trends of theories that cannot be generalised. On the other hand the interpretative approach to project management is about the opposite of the positivist approach. It is subjective in nature, it assumes sub jective reality as seen by people and it is constructed socially. (Collis, &Huss ey, 2009). This approach of research is based on the philosophy of human science and the methodology is centred on the way human beings make sense of their subj ective reality and attach meaning to it. The interpretative approach is one of t he most cited examples in research paradigm as (Burrell & Morgan 1997) stated. I t is associated with the qualitative approach of data collection. Furthermore the interpretative approach stresses the necessity that the research er should understand the difference between humans in their role as social actor s. (Saunders et al, 2007). The interpretivist addresses the complexities of soci al actions, knowing that it is suitable to understand the perceptions and meanin g individuals attach to phenomena. It is very good in addressing the particular but poor in addressing the general. It is very good in assuming the generalizati on of natural laws. Bibliography Saunders et al (2007).Research Methods for Business Students. Google books .com . Collis & Hussey (2009). The spectrum of research paradigm and its associated met hodologies. Cranfield University.