The role of conventional research methods in information systems action research

Matt Germonprez, Lars Mathiassen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Action research has for many years been promoted and practiced as one way to conduct empirical research within the Information Systems discipline. While the approach can lead to highly relevant contributions, researchers are warned against the many risks involved in action research. Based on successful cases of Information Systems action research we explore the role played by conventional research methods in developing and presenting research contributions. The cases suggest that action research lends itself strongly toward multi-method approaches and facilitates the creation of multi-contribution projects. We identify two approaches to mixing action research and conventional research methods-the planned and the emergent approaches-and we argue that action research can be adopted in ways that are no more risky than other conventional approaches to Information Systems research.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationInf. Systems Research
Subtitle of host publicationRelevant Theory and Informed Practice - IFIP TC8/WG8.2 20th Year Retrospective: Relevant Theory and Informed Practice-Looking Forward from a 20-Year Perspective on IS Res.
PublisherSpringer New York LLC
Pages335-349
Number of pages15
ISBN (Print)1402080948, 9781402080944
StatePublished - 2004
Externally publishedYes
EventIFIP TC8/WG8.2 20th Year Retrospective: Relevant Theory and Informed Practice-Looking Forward from a 20-Year Perspective on IS Research - Manchester, United Kingdom
Duration: Jul 15 2004Jul 17 2004

Publication series

NameIFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology
Volume143
ISSN (Print)1868-4238

Conference

ConferenceIFIP TC8/WG8.2 20th Year Retrospective: Relevant Theory and Informed Practice-Looking Forward from a 20-Year Perspective on IS Research
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityManchester
Period7/15/047/17/04

Keywords

  • Action research
  • IS research methodologies
  • Pluralism

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Information Systems
  • Computer Networks and Communications
  • Information Systems and Management

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