This book provides insights into the lived experiences of researchers as they negotiate the undulating terrain of the world of paradigms and seek to find their niche. Each chapter presents the journeys of postgraduate candidates, early career researchers and established scholars, starting with an overview of their paradigm, the application of the paradigm to their specific research context, and concluding with the authors reflecting on their identification with and use of the paradigm. The volume acknowledges that determining the paradigm that best aligns with a scholar’s personal ideologies and the underlying assumptions of the research can be rather daunting, challenging and perplexing to scholars who are starting their research journey. It offers an accessible exploration of research paradigms and will be a valuable resource for postgraduate researchers, emerging scholars and PhD supervisors.

Research into early childhood transitions has become a field in its own right. It is increasingly understood that a positive start in any new setting can influence the child's engagement, sense of belonging, well-being, progression in learning, and agency, and may be dependent on the insight of educators and families, and yet there is no research methodology or research methods book dedicated to this growing field of study. Including 27 chapters written by researchers from the UK, New Zealand, the USA, Sweden, Iceland, Australia and Canada this handbook presents an overview of the field exploring its current debates, reflects on its history, and offers suggestions for the future of the field. This book is an essential reference point for anyone studying or undertaking research into transitions in early childhood.

This book challenges the widespread assumption that a necessary preliminary to qualitative research is the formulation of ontological and epistemological beliefs. It argues that the metaphysical claims which supposedly underpin different approaches to social research do not make sense. Literally. Sentences such as ‘There is a single objective reality’ and ‘There are multiple constructed realities’ fail to make information-providing statements. They do not refer or describe. Despite appearances, they say nothing about reality (or realities) at a fundamental level, so they cannot be used to justify, ground, or align with, methodological decisions. The ‘necessary preliminary’ turns out not to be necessary at all; and we can dispense with, not just ‘paradigms’, but metaphysical underpinnings in general, whether structured as paradigms or not. Drawing on Wittgenstein’s later philosophy, Carnap’s metametaphysics, and contemporary linguistics, the book suggests that the metaphysical claims of qualitative texts can be reinterpreted as performative. Ontological and epistemological beliefs are resolutions and proposals, recommendations for the use of language. They form part of a creed by means of which researchers enact the joining of an academic community. Written in Paley’s trademark clear, accessible and conversational style, the book points to a revolution in our understanding of the relation between metaphysics and social research. It will be essential reading for anyone interested in qualitative research and its philosophical foundations.

This book provides the reader with a fresh perspective on the use of theory in the body of research centred on social impacts of tourism. Theory is advanced in three primary forms within this volume. Some apply novel frameworks (e.g., theory of interaction ritual; degrowth paradigm; and mere exposure theory) to contexts involving destination residents. Others consider various uniquely complemented theoretical frameworks (e.g., social exchange theory and affect theory of exchange; Weber’s theory of rationality and Foucauldian constructs; and emotional solidarity and cognitive appraisal theory). Still others develop theoretical frameworks (e.g., influence of presumed influence model, elaboration likelihood model, and social exchange theory; tourist-resident social contact; quality of life; and socio-ecological systems theory and chaos theory) for others to potentially consider and test. The chapters in this edited volume contribute to the evolving advancement of theoretical applications within the research area of social impacts of tourism. This book will be of great interest to all upper-level students and researchers in tourism, planning and related fields. The chapters in this volume were originally published as a special issue of Journal of Sustainable Tourism.

Despite its crucial role in economic growth and societal development, infrastructure projects often fail to reach their full potential. In many cases, the benefits of infrastructure development do not trickle down to the most vulnerable populations, exacerbating inequalities and limiting overall impact. Additionally, the design and implementation of infrastructure reforms can sometimes worsen environmental pressures and spatial insecurity, highlighting the need for strategic approaches to infrastructure development. Infrastructure Development Strategies for Empowerment and Inclusion offers a comprehensive solution to these challenges. By delving into a broad range of ideas, strategies, and case studies, this book provides valuable insights for academics, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. It examines how infrastructure projects can be designed and implemented to empower marginalized groups, foster inclusivity, and stimulate equitable economic growth, thus maximizing their impact.

Many individuals with hearing impairments face significant challenges when transitioning from education to employment. These challenges are often exacerbated by a lack of understanding, limited support structures, and inadequate resources. As a result, they may struggle to find and maintain meaningful employment, leading to increased societal exclusion and economic hardship. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs and barriers faced by hearing impaired individuals, and evidence-based strategies to support their successful transition into the workforce. Perspectives on Career Transitioning of Students with Hearing Impairments offers a comprehensive solution to the challenges of career transitioning for these students that have had educational resources that may be of reach as they enter the workforce. Drawing on extensive research and practical insights, the book provides a nuanced understanding of hearing impairment and its impact on career development. It explores various topics, including existing knowledge and attitudes, theories and methods, educational and policy issues, intervention studies, and guidelines for supporting these individuals in their career transitions. The book aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by addressing these topics and offering actionable strategies and recommendations for educators, policymakers, and practitioners.