Critical realism: a way forward for evaluation research in nursing?
Critical realism: a way forward for evaluation research in nursing?
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DOI：
10.1046/j.1365-2648.2003.02730.x
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发表时间：
2003-08-01
影响因子：
3.8
通讯作者：
Richards, D
中科院分区：
文献类型：
--
作者：
McEvoy, P;Richards, D
背景批判实在论是一种相对较新的哲学观点，它将实在论本体论与相对主义认识论结合起来，形成了一种“稳健”的相对主义。在评价研究的两个领域考虑了采用批判现实主义方法的潜在好处：理论驱动的方案评价和政策评价。本文的目的是确定批判现实主义的主要特征，并探索其作为评价研究领域的哲学框架的潜力。我们认为，批判现实主义提供了一个连贯的框架，评估研究的基础上理解的因果机制。这对于寻求使用循证干预措施的一线服务尤为重要，因为如果要在临床实践中有效使用干预措施，就需要正确理解干预措施。批判的现实主义也可以增加政策分析的深度。然而，批判现实主义者在提出关于最佳行动方针的建议时，有可能超越将科学知识与思辨理论分开的界限。
Background. Critical realism is a relatively new philosophical perspective that combines a realist ontology with a relativist epistemology in subscribing to a form of 'robust' relativism. The potential benefits of adopting a critical realist approach are considered in two areas of evaluation research: theory-driven programme evaluation and policy evaluation.Aim. The aim of the paper is to identify the main features of critical realism and explore its potential as a philosophical framework in the field of evaluation research.Conclusion. We argue that critical realism provides a coherent framework for evaluation research that is based on the understanding of causal mechanisms. This is particularly important for frontline services seeking to use evidence-based interventions, as interventions need to be properly understood if they are to be used effectively in the context of clinical practice. Critical realism can also add depth to policy analysis. However, there is a potential for critical realists to drift beyond the boundary that separates scientific knowledge from speculative theory when making recommendations about the best course of action to follow.