How to … use theory as method in HPE research.

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education Research
• Qualitative Research Methodologies

Background:

• Scholars in Health Professions Education (HPE) often lack familiarity with theory-informed research approaches.
• There is a need for practical guidance on integrating theory into the entire research process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a robust method for using theory as a research method in HPE.
• To illustrate how theory can inform research question formation, data analysis, and reporting.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Figured Worlds theory as a case example to demonstrate the application of theory in research.
• Mapped six key concepts: figured world, agency, improvisation, discourse, positionality, and power.
• Developed interview questions informed by theoretical concepts to explore participant experiences.

Main Results:

• The six concepts from Figured Worlds theory served as effective analytic tools for understanding HPE research topics.
• Figured Worlds theory informed research design, exploration of agency, understanding of norms through discourse, and analysis of participant positionality and power dynamics.
• Theory-informed analysis facilitated nuanced understanding and generated new insights into study subjects and their contexts.

Conclusions:

• Theory offers concrete methodological tools that HPE scholars can utilize, despite initial intimidation.
• Theory-informed qualitative inquiry allows for nuanced understanding and new insights, but requires flexibility in response to emerging data.
• Integrating theory enhances the rigor and depth of research in health professions education.