Methodological Challenges in Studying Context in Action

Abstract

This chapter develops the methodological aspects of the Framework for Studying Context and Action presented and discussed in the first two chapters of the book. The chapter offers two vignettes as examples of how context can be operationalized and studied (Genetics Knowledge Park and Comparing across Contexts in Action), and it reflects on the lessons these vignettes offer. Next it explores why the links between an understanding of context, the unit of analysis, and methods have such an impact on a given research project and its results. It discussed the methodological aspects of the Framework for Studying Context and Action, specifically in relation to the three main questions we address in the book. Then it presents and discusses the methodological challenges of studying context raised by the contributors.