Phenomenographic Thinking and Research: A Theoretical and Methodological Perspective

Abstract

In this study, what and how phenomenography as a thinking and research approach is synthesized with a theory-based and practice-oriented approach. In phenomenographic studies conducted in the national context, following steps unsuitable for the epistemology and practices of the approach lead to a false perception of the approach in the external reader, and inconsistent information stacks may occur. This study aims to provide a more accurate understanding of phenomenographic thinking and to use it more appropriately as a research method. Thus, the basic principles, concepts, jargon, and reasoning styles about how phenomenographic research can be carried out are presented in depth. Furthermore, this study aims to make the phenomenography approach more visible and applicable to the syntheses it offers. Initially, the philosophy, theoretical foundations, and basic concepts of the phenomenographic approach were discussed in this context. Then, syntheses were shared about choosing the case to be researched, determining the participant group, structuring the data collection tool, performing the data collection process, determining the researcher’s position, managing and analyzing the data, and ensuring the validity and reliability conditions. In addition, case studies from leading researchers in the field of phenomenography were examined for exemplification. Finally, suggestions were made to researchers who will carry out studies based on the phenomenographic perspective.