The contribution of theory to an ethnographic case study on interprofessional placements in healthcare education

Noreen O’Leary, Nancy Salmon, Amanda M. Clifford

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Theoretical frameworks add depth to research and increase the transferability of findings. Unfortunately, theory application within interprofessional research is often ad hoc, superficial and poorly reported. Consequently, there are limited examples for researchers in the field to draw on when selecting and applying theory. In this paper, we explore how a suite of sociomaterial, and sociological theories were selected to guide an ethnographic case study about interprofessional placements. Theory supported development of nuanced data collection tools. This facilitated comprehensive exploration of the factors impacting interprofessional placements, beyond those immediately visible. The use of a combination of theories was well suited to this complex phenomenon. We recommend research methodology training aims to develop researcher facility with theory and more consistent consideration of theory in reporting and quality appraisal tools. This may support more meaningful theory application, generating findings with deeply embedded theoretical foundations in interprofessional research.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)39-52
Number of pages14
JournalInternational Journal of Social Research Methodology
Volume24
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • educational research
  • Healthcare
  • research design
  • theory

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