Practice-based questions are research questions explored through hands-on, practical work. Researchers don't just analyze existing data; they actively create, experiment, and engage with the subject matter to find answers. This active involvement is essential to their research process.
Types of Practice-Based Questions and Applications
The nature of "practice-based questions" can vary greatly depending on the field. Here are some examples:
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In research: Practice-based research questions might explore the effectiveness of a new teaching method by implementing it and studying the results, or investigate how a specific design choice affects user experience by building a prototype and collecting user feedback. (David Gauntlett, Kate Stuart) This is fundamentally different from simply analyzing existing data to answer a research question. It necessitates doing to discover.
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In primary care: Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) use collaborative efforts among clinicians to address community health issues. They ask questions directly relevant to the real-world challenges encountered in healthcare practice. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, tracs.unc.edu) These questions might focus on improving patient outcomes or optimizing healthcare processes.
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In professional development: Practice-based coaching (PBC) uses a cyclical process to support teachers' use of effective teaching practices. Questions focus on analyzing current teaching practices and identifying areas for improvement through real-world application and feedback. (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov)
Key Characteristics of Practice-Based Questions
- Action-oriented: These questions demand practical experimentation and application.
- Context-specific: Often rooted in real-world scenarios and challenges.
- Iterative: The process involves refinement and adaptation based on practical results.
- Hands-on: Direct engagement with the subject matter is crucial for finding answers.
In short, practice-based questions are those that require hands-on work to uncover answers; they are not answered simply through observation or analysis of existing information alone. The act of doing is integral to the research process itself.
