Research 2.0: A Framework for Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Web 2.0 Environments

The paper explores the potential of the Web 2.0 environment for conducting both qualitative and quantitative research. The paper analyzes the emerging Research 2.0 domain using the theoretical framework of Web 2.0 core principles (e.g., web as a platform, harnessing collective intelligence, etc.). These principles, first proposed by Tim O´Reilly, provide a useful lens through which researchers can examine the potential for Web 2.0 technologies in shaping the next generation of research methodologies. To this end, the paper examines how these principles would apply to the research domain, how traditional methodologies used in qualitative and quantitative research can be applied within a Web 2.0 environment, and the challenges and issues that researchers may face in a Research 2.0 domain. The paper identifies key research issues that need to be explored to fully realize the potential of Web 2.0 technologies in conducting qualitative and quantitative research.