Curiosity-Driven Study: A Paradigm Revisited

David Tchaikovsky Boon Ern Teh

doi:10.47405/mjssh.v4i3.196

David Tchaikovsky Boon Ern Teh Faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Auckland

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47405/mjssh.v4i3.196

Keywords: Curiosity, Research, Paradigm, Methodology, Curiosity-Driven

Abstract

Research has undergone tremendous changes over the years, as technology grows more sophisticated and definitions of what research is continues to evolve. Despite the number of paradigms being developed to address different needs and wants, curiosity has been surprisingly overlooked in recent years. This article will revisit some of the major objectives of conducting research, which is followed by a discussion on the limitations of the paradigms available at present. The article will then discuss the “forgotten” drive in research – curiosity – and argues for a recalibration to place curiosity as the primary drive of research, as oppose to solely focusing on problem-solving, filling gap in literature, giving voice and fulfilling industrial demands. A research framework is then proposed, along with the potential outcomes of the paradigm in social and educational settings. Lastly, the article calls for more studies revisiting the potential advantages of curiosity-oriented research, and how future researchers can benefit from this shift in perspective.

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