A Constructivist View of Research Planning

Much is written about the need for research in the field of counseling and about concerns that counselors frequently appear hesitant to conduct original research. Identifying research interests often develops through collaboration with colleagues. This study investigates the variables that influence research interest identification and how collaboration and constructivism factor into this process. This phenomenological study identified five themes that impact the development of research interests: social justice; life experiences; professional identity development; collaboration with colleagues/opportunity; and innovation/ knowledge.