The Open University, UK
Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
This handbook is the latest release from the Global OER Graduate Network (GO-GN), the open education scholarship community. To support all researchers working in open education GO-GN has developed a methodology guide to doctoral level research. The handbook was written by academics from The Open University (UK) and features contributions from GO-GN members - some of the leading and upcoming scholars specialising in open education - who contributed their insights into different research methods and their application in their own work.
The handbook provides an accessible overview of the philosophical foundations of different research paradigms as well as looking at different options for research design and data collection. The unique contribution is to look at the application of different methods in an open education context, offering guidance on how to be open in practice such as sharing data openly and making best use of networks. Practical guidance is offered on research ethics, managing risks, self-management and personal development.
The Handbook is an open educational resource, but also represents a fine example of open educational practice in research. 28 prominent doctoral and post-doctoral scholars contributed insights to create a resource that has ongoing value for the open education community. It contains a wealth of links and citations that offer valuable insights and pathways to research excellence for open educators, and also serves as an introduction to cutting-edge research produced by GO-GN network members.