Volume 13, Issue 50 (3-2024)
Haft Hesar J Environ Stud 2024, 13(50): 5-32 |
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Abdolkarimi Komleh H, Zabihi H, Daneshjo K. Novel approaches in phenomenology: a comparative evaluation of descriptive and interpretive methodologies. Haft Hesar J Environ Stud 2024; 13 (50) :5-32
URL: http://hafthesar.iauh.ac.ir/article-1-2182-en.html
URL: http://hafthesar.iauh.ac.ir/article-1-2182-en.html
1- Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch
2- Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch & Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch
2- Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch & Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch
Abstract: (552 Views)
Introduction: Phenomenology, as a philosophical and methodological framework, aims to understand individuals' subjective experiences and lived realities. It emphasizes the in-depth exploration of human consciousness and the meaning-making processes that shape our perceptions of the world. Within architectural research, phenomenology offers valuable insights into how people experience and interact with built environments. However, the application of phenomenological methods within the Iranian academic context remains relatively limited. Moreover, the literature presents a critical gap concerning the nuanced distinctions and appropriate applications of descriptive and interpretive approaches within the framework of phenomenological research. This study aims to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the descriptive and interpretive dimensions of phenomenological research.
Methodology: This research employs a systematic literature review approach to investigate the distinct characteristics and applications of descriptive and interpretive methods within the context of phenomenological research. The review systematically examined a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and other relevant resources published in English, focusing on those that provide in-depth discussions of methodological considerations within phenomenological inquiry. Data sources included reputable academic databases. The review process involved a rigorous selection and analysis of relevant literature, focusing on key themes, methodological approaches, and critical evaluations of existing research.
Results: The findings of this review reveal a diverse spectrum of methodological considerations within both descriptive and interpretive approaches to phenomenological research. Descriptive phenomenology emphasizes the meticulous description of lived experiences, focusing on capturing the essence of individual perceptions and interpretations. This approach often involves rigorous data collection methods such as in-depth interviews, participant observation, and textual analysis, with a strong emphasis on detailed and accurate descriptions of the data. In contrast, interpretive phenomenology focuses on understanding the underlying meanings and interpretations that shape individual experiences. This approach often involves hermeneutical interpretation, seeking to uncover the deeper layers of meaning embedded within the data. This may involve analyzing the data through a variety of interpretive frameworks, such as those derived from existential philosophy, hermeneutics, or post-structuralism.
Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of carefully considering the philosophical and methodological underpinnings of both descriptive and interpretive approaches when conducting phenomenological research. The choice between these approaches should be guided by the specific research questions, the nature of the phenomenon under investigation, and the researcher's own epistemological and ontological assumptions. Neither approach is inherently superior to the other, and the most appropriate method will vary depending on the context and objectives of the research. By providing a detailed analysis of the distinctive features and applications of descriptive and interpretive phenomenological methods, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of these approaches and their potential application within the Iranian academic context. This research serves as a foundation for further exploration of phenomenological methods in architectural research and other relevant fields within Iran.
Methodology: This research employs a systematic literature review approach to investigate the distinct characteristics and applications of descriptive and interpretive methods within the context of phenomenological research. The review systematically examined a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and other relevant resources published in English, focusing on those that provide in-depth discussions of methodological considerations within phenomenological inquiry. Data sources included reputable academic databases. The review process involved a rigorous selection and analysis of relevant literature, focusing on key themes, methodological approaches, and critical evaluations of existing research.
Results: The findings of this review reveal a diverse spectrum of methodological considerations within both descriptive and interpretive approaches to phenomenological research. Descriptive phenomenology emphasizes the meticulous description of lived experiences, focusing on capturing the essence of individual perceptions and interpretations. This approach often involves rigorous data collection methods such as in-depth interviews, participant observation, and textual analysis, with a strong emphasis on detailed and accurate descriptions of the data. In contrast, interpretive phenomenology focuses on understanding the underlying meanings and interpretations that shape individual experiences. This approach often involves hermeneutical interpretation, seeking to uncover the deeper layers of meaning embedded within the data. This may involve analyzing the data through a variety of interpretive frameworks, such as those derived from existential philosophy, hermeneutics, or post-structuralism.
Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of carefully considering the philosophical and methodological underpinnings of both descriptive and interpretive approaches when conducting phenomenological research. The choice between these approaches should be guided by the specific research questions, the nature of the phenomenon under investigation, and the researcher's own epistemological and ontological assumptions. Neither approach is inherently superior to the other, and the most appropriate method will vary depending on the context and objectives of the research. By providing a detailed analysis of the distinctive features and applications of descriptive and interpretive phenomenological methods, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of these approaches and their potential application within the Iranian academic context. This research serves as a foundation for further exploration of phenomenological methods in architectural research and other relevant fields within Iran.
Keywords: Phenomenology, Phenomenological method, Hermeneutic phenomenology, Descriptive phenomenology, Interpretive phenomenology
Type of Study: Research |
Received: 2024/04/5 | Accepted: 2024/05/25 | Published: 2025/03/30
Received: 2024/04/5 | Accepted: 2024/05/25 | Published: 2025/03/30
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