Scientific Research in Information Systems

A Beginner's Guide

verfasst von: Jan Recker

Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg

Buchreihe : Progress in IS

Enthalten in: Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" , Springer Professional "Technik" , Springer Professional "Wirtschaft"

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Über dieses Buch

This book is designed to introduce doctoral and other higher-degree research students to the process of scientific research in the fields of Information Systems as well as fields of Information Technology, Business Process Management and other related disciplines within the social sciences. It guides research students in their process of learning the life of a researcher. In doing so, it provides an understanding of the essential elements, concepts and challenges of the journey into research studies. It also provides a gateway for the student to inquire deeper about each element covered. Comprehensive and broad but also succinct and compact, the book is focusing on the key principles and challenges for a novice doctoral student.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Frontmatter

Basic Principles of Research

Frontmatter

Chapter 1. Introduction

Abstract

Welcome! You have just now commenced your journey as a doctoral scholar in the discipline of your choice. We call this research discipline “Information Systems”. Information Systems is mostly concerned with the socio-technical systems comprising organisations and individuals that deploy information technology for business tasks. In a broader way, the Information Systems research discipline is concerned with examining Information Technology in use [127].

Jan Recker

Chapter 2. Information Systems Research as a Science

Abstract

At one time, a friend of mine gave me a book to inform me as to the nature of science. My immediate response was that I did not need such a book; at that stage I was already tenured, promoted to Associate Professor with a good track record in publishing, and the promise of many publications to come. Clearly, I thought, I know what science is about.

Jan Recker

Conducting Research

Frontmatter

Chapter 3. The Research Process

Abstract

The Australian Ph.D. program lasts approximately 3–4 years, with the average closer to 4 years. Doctoral programs in other countries tend to last a little longer, up to 7 years in some North American programs. In most countries and across most individual cases, virtually all of the first year is dedicated to two challenges of doctoral study:

Jan Recker

Chapter 4. Theorising

Abstract

Chapter 3 above took us through the steps of designing a research inquiry. It is the planning stage of the research. This chapter and Chap. 5 below now address two key challenges in executing the research, by discussing theory and method. Let’s start by looking at theory.

Jan Recker

Chapter 5. Research Methods

Abstract

Information systems research as a social science is complex, diverse, and pluralistic, meaning that it can take many forms of inquiry, theory, and outcomes. The way information systems research is conducted as well as the goals, theory and assumptions of the research can vary significantly. This is probably most evident in the choices related to the selection of an appropriate research methodology, as we discussed in Sect. 3.3 above.

Jan Recker

Publishing Research

Frontmatter

Chapter 6. Writing IS Research Articles

Abstract

In this chapter, we will examine some guidelines and advice that relate to reporting of research conducted. Publication is an essential scholarly activity because it informs academic and other communities about lines of investigation, (and their outcomes) related to relevant phenomenon being studied.

Jan Recker

Chapter 7. Ethical Considerations in Research

Abstract

In this part of the book, I want to draw your attention to ethical considerations as they pertain to research in information systems. Ethics form a branch of philosophy that seeks to address questions about morality; that is, about concepts such as good and bad, right and wrong, justice, and virtue. Ethics define the principles of right and wrong conduct in a community or profession, and can be used by individuals acting as free moral agents to make choices to guide their behaviour. Ethical behaviour is defined as those actions that abide by rules of responsibility, accountability, liability, and due process:

Jan Recker

Chapter 8. Instead of a Conclusion

Abstract

I would like to say that I am writing these final lines on a drizzly Tuesday afternoon while a sharp wind howls outside and rain is splashing against the window at my office at home. That’s not true. It’s a Wednesday (for one thing), and the weather in Brisbane is gorgeous and sunny as usual. Finally, I tend to work in the office as at home I encounter too many distractions, especially my beautiful and wonderful partner.

Jan Recker

Backmatter

Titel: Scientific Research in Information Systems
verfasst von: Jan Recker
Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Electronic ISBN: 978-3-642-30048-6
Print ISBN: 978-3-642-30047-9
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-30048-6