• Korean Journal of Social Welfare
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• v.63 no.2
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• pp.155-177
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• 2011

This paper attempts to explore the universal foundation on which the discourses on the validity criteria in qualitative research should be based, and further discuss in depth the scope and direction of an adequate validity criterion in qualitative research by critical examination of previous discourses. To establish the foundation for qualitative research, first of all, the concept of quality and qualitative paradigm were examined in terms of ontology and epistemology, especially focused on the works carried out by Aristotle, Kenneth and Boyd. Secondly, the earlier studies on the validity of qualitative research were critically reviewed in terms of the theoretical findings on the concept of quality and qualitative paradigm. The major results include the following: First, the true content of quality is defined as the 'what-ness' or essence of things perceived by subjects, and qualitative paradigm as adequate framework for qualitative research is comprised of two intrinsic modes: one is the mode of awareness and the other is that of expression. Second, qualitative researchers are able to reach to the higher level of validity by considering not only the subjectivity and the originality but also the sociality in drawing a conclusion through qualitative perception. Third, the trend of previous validity discourses can be firmly summarized as the effort to overcome the effect of quantitative research and acquire the true identity for qualitative research, which is subjectivity, and as the quest to compromise the tension between subjectivity and sociality. Finally, based on the findings, several research topics are suggested. For example, the more attention should be paid to the area of the expression of qualitative awareness as a way of overcome the tension between subjectivity and publicness.

• Research in Mathematical Education
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• v.17 no.2
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• pp.79-97
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• 2013

This paper reports findings from a survey of senior secondary school students' epistemological conceptions of mathematics with the adaption of the instrument of the "Conceptions of Mathematics" - Inventory in China. The survey included a sample of 414 Grade 10 students, 441 Grade 11 students, and 400 Grade 12 students from three provinces. Descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and T-test were employed to analyze data in this study. It was found that senior secondary school students mainly focused on objectivity and reality of mathematics, without highlighting the characteristics of sociality, subjectivity, and creativity of mathematics. In addition, besides gender differences, differences were identified among students from different grades, different areas, taught by teachers with different teaching experience and experience in using reformed curriculum.