Abstract:
This paper defines the epistemological and ontological assumptions underpinning the two most common research paradigms: the scientific and interpretive; in relation to their methodology and methods. It will also shed light on the third recent approach; namely the critical paradigm. A description of the two methods of data collection corresponding to those paradigms is provided. The conclusion section will end with a discussion about the quality of educational research. This paper might be of help to novice and EFL/ESL researchers who wish to conduct research studies in their areas of expertise.