Epistemologies and research methods are not free of metaphysics. This is to say that they are both, supported by (or presumed by), and support (or presume) fundamental ontologies. A discussion of the epistemological foundations of “multimethod” research in the social sciences—in as much as such research claims to unearth “causal” relations—therefore cannot avoid the ontological presuppositions or implications of such a discussion. But though there isn’t necessarily a perfect correspondence between ontology, epistemology, and methodology, they do constrain each other. As such it is possible to make methodological choices that are at odds with one’s (implicit) ontology or argue from an ontology that is inconsistent one’s choice of methods. Yet lack of recognition of this fact has hampered methodological discussions in political science, especially with respect to the discussion on the merits of multimethod research. The ontology implicitly accepted in such discussions is “reductionist” and “regularist,” that is, one that respectively defines causes in terms of noncausal relations and states of affair and affirms that such noncausal relations are regularities in nature. This article will argue that any attempt to fit “multimethod” research (where “multimethod” signifies some combination of inferential statistics and case studies) within this narrow ontology is destined to fail since such a metaphysics logically cannot accord case studies a necessary or sufficient role in the in the establishment of causal relations. However, there are metaphysical positions within the ambit of an empiricist philosophy of science that can accommodate multiple methods without contradiction. The article discusses two such ontologies and suggests ways in which they might allow the establishment of a coherent epistemological foundation for multimethod research, however, within a decidedly empiricist philosophy of science.
Portugal has a rich and diverse culture of artisanal arts and crafts, embodying significant symbolic and historical value. However, due to factors such as resource limitations, apathy from younger generations, and a growing incompatibility with the digital world, many age-old industrial techniques, traditions, and practices are ebbing away. In response, Anti-Amnesia, a design research intervention, intends to contribute to the revitalization of such artisanal heritage through leveraging digital technology as a means for dissemination and monetization. In particular, a component of the project is dedicated to the development of an online premise catering to the needs of the craft sector, including an embedded marketplace. This virtual market consists of a platform that functions as a commercial intermediary, where vendors are allotted a space and a set of tools to support publicity and sale of their products. This chapter discusses the feasibility of implementing the proposed output in relation to market research conducted and the inceptive outcomes accomplished.
This paper presents two studies constituted within two funded design research projects that are intended to develop tools which can support the transfer of specialized knowledge between an older generation of art, craft, and design practitioners and present-day students of art and design. The first study concerns a digital archiving and education platform designed to promote both research and practice in the area of traditional Portuguese manufacturing. It aims to aid in the conservation and continuity of local cultural and industrial heritage with a vision to ensure an effective access to the associated skills, techniques, and empirical wisdom for present and future patrons. The second study is about an interactive infographic that aims to synthesize and unravel complex systems of information relative to the creative and academic legacies of retired art and design teachers. The work is based on the documentation and analysis of testimonies from 30 key individuals, wherein, relevant information has been extrapolated and structured within the framework of an educational resource aimed for use in design research and pedagogy. Both studies seek to build knowledge-based connections between distinct generational and disciplinary segments. The respective interfaces are also meant to showcase the criticality of digital media in the rescue and re-inscription of artistic and creative legacies, and for fostering greater possibilities.
Evolution of manufacturing technology has been a definitive indicator of human society's development. From the wheels that started the spree to the world of machines that have revolutionized the manufacturing processes, manufacturing tools have been indicative of eras of development. In this paper, we have focused on the branch of engineering that deals with manufacturing -specifically its structure in India. In this study we investigate some premier government institutes with respect to Manufacturing Engineering Education. We have also included the technical education model at different education level.
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