It begins...

Eds Gesa Kirsch and Patricia A. Sullivan. Methods and Methodology in Comp Research.
This excerpt examines the role of research in Comp, especially the split between plural or singular methodologies. Using Harding definition, method is defined as "a technique or way of proceeding in gathering evidence, and methodology as the underlying theory and analysis of how research does or should proceed" (2). While there a lack of consensus about how Comp should proceed with research, each contributor sees research as beginning with an inquiry or issue, not a fixed or prescriptive research design. What must be in the forefront of discussion, however, are the following issues: researcher's agenda, researcher's relation to the subject, and the purpose of the researcher's questions (8).

In "Methodological Pluralism" Kirsh examines pluralism in more depth. On one side of the debate, some feel that pluralistic methods can create a coherent, overall work. Kirsch critiques this method based on its approach of research as distinct from social or political influences, and as linear progressions in a fixed order.

Comp research, however, is opportunistic and follows inquiry or evidence, rather than predetermined methods.

On the other side of the debate are those that claim it should have one method. These are categorized as seeing a split between teaching and theorizing. Single methodology also runs the danger of imposing regulations some want to avoid (what counts as valid and exclusion of potential methods). Then she addresses North's work, which theorizes a split based on methodology war.

Not surprisingly, Kirsh claims tensions and contradictions are beneficial to Comp, rather than dangerous. Further, factors like interdisciplinarity, broad questions and diverse questions all point to pluralistic methodology.

Again, as long as we continue to reflect on the researcher's role, questions and agenda, then pluralistic methods will benefit. Being aware of the process, reflecting on the process and reciprocal  relations will be beneficial as well.