Week four: Evaluation paradigms and models

Must admit I was thankful for Bronwyn's definition of paradigm this week.
Bronwyn said:

"The word paradigm conjures up visions of stiff and starchy academia doesn't it? Well think of it as a style or belief. You will all have heard the words paradigm-shift when people talk about how eLearning is changing how we teach; meaning the change from teacher-centred to student-centred learning."

Previously, I blogged about a 'brain shift'...was I talking about a similar thing?
I gather, in my words, it essentially means 'a model, or pattern'. Therefore "paradigm-shift' means using a different model or pattern...and may require a "brain shift' to do so?

Then in the readings (see link below) there was the word Hermeneutic! I had to look that one up! Grief! (should also add - all good, I enjoy word puzzles)
Seems it means: 'Interpretive; explanatory' (dictionary.com)

According to Professor Tom Reeves there are four Educational Paradigms:

1. Analytic-Empirical-Positivist-Quantititive Paradigm: the most established of the paradigms. My interpretation is this is something that can be measured, such as a set of statistics. Supposedly objective...but I do wonder if the viewpoint of the surveyor has an impact here...
   
2. Constructivist-Hermeneutic-Interpretivist-Qualitative Paradigm : In my words - this is the analysis of comments regarding how we (humans) do things. I still don't really understand this but hope I'm on the right track...apparently subjective.
   
3. Critical Theory-Neomarxist-Postmodern-Praxis Paradigm: Reeves suggests proponents of this paradigm are 'social activists' and "view themselves as the forces of liberation engaged in mortal conflict with the powers of liberation". Must admit I'm not too sure about this one and would need to research more before making a comment but my gut feeling is that it sounds far to political for me.
   
4. Eclectic-Mixed methods-Pragmatic Paradigm: I'm still reading and re-reading this. Reeves suggests this is the "most useful" paradigm. And I gather it is a mix of the above...? (source: paradigms by Professor Tom Reeves.)

While I'm still digesting all of the above, I wondering about the impact technology has has on our lives...and how we measure that impact.

I think I need to stop thinking :)