Grounded Theory in Applied Linguistics Research

In this revised and expanded second edition, Hadley unravels the often-tangled understanding regarding Grounded Theory, a research methodology employed globally by social scientists, educators, and qualitative researchers. This practical guidebook will be an indispensable resource for students and academics in applied linguistics.

Gregory Hadley is Professor of Sociolinguistics at Niigata University and a Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford. He has authored and edited key works on grounded theory and English language teaching, including Grounded Theory in Action and English for Academic Purposes in Neoliberal Universities.

Foreword PART I: Understanding Grounded Theory Introduction The Emergence of Grounded Theory Unlocking the Potential of Grounded Theory in Applied Linguistics The Need for this Book Content Overview On Style and Substance 1 Establishing Common Ground: Paradigms in Perspective Toward Deeper Levels of Insight Paradigms and Conceptual Metaphors The Issue of Incommensurability The Autopoiesis of Research Paradigms Implications and Applications Grounding Methodological Practices with Philosophical Insights 2 The Origins of Grounded Theory Early Philosophical and Methodological Development An Overview of Classic Grounded Theory Diverging Paths Conflict and Recriminations External Critiques of Grounded Theory Toward Equilibrium and Methodological Tolerance 3 Contemporary Grounded Theory A Maturing Family of Methodologies Dimensional Analysis Constructivist Grounded Theory Situational Analysis Critical Grounded Theory The Interconnected Nature of Grounded Theory Methodologies Pause for Reflection Comparing Grounded Theory with other Qualitative Research Methodologies Toward Pragmatic Action PART II: Doing Grounded Theory 4 Preliminary Decisions Ethics, Ethical Review, and Ethicism Gaining Access to Informants Technical Decisions Interview Transcripts Packed for the Journey 5 Breaking New Ground Through Open Exploration Wonder, Introspection, and Sensitivity Observation, Note- Taking, and Early Coding Repertory Grids Conducting and Coding Qualitative Interviews Memos An Integrated Cycle of Exploration 6 Taking it to the Next Level: From Description to Theorization Focused Coding Conceptual Categories Theoretical Coding Getting to the Core Theoretical Sufficiency Summary 7 Spreading the Word: Theory Dissemination Writing up Your Grounded Theory Presenting Your Theory in Public Summary 8 Final Thoughts Taking Stock of What We Have Learned Scanning the Horizon Ahead Toward a Greater Contribution