Constructive Research and Info-Computational Knowledge Generation

It is usual when writing on research methodology in dissertations and thesis work within Software Engineering to refer to Empirical Methods, Grounded Theory and Action Research. Analysis of Constructive Research Methods which are fundamental for all knowledge production and especially for concept formation, modeling and the use of artifacts is seldom given, so the relevant first-hand knowledge is missing. This article argues for introducing of the analysis of Constructive Research Methods, as crucial for understanding of research process and knowledge production. The paper provides characterization of the Constructive Research Method and its relations to Action Research and Grounded Theory. Illustrative example of Blue Brain Project is presented. Finally, foundations of Constructive Research are analyzed within the framework of Info-Computationalism which provides models of knowledge construction by information processing in a cognizing agent. 1. Understanding of Research Methodology in Computing on the Background of Philosophy of Engineering and Philosophy of Science Information age is fundamentally dependent on engineering whose knowledge largely rests on the research within Computing / Informatics. Demonstrably, artefacts built on research results of Computing work remarkably well and in that sense the research within Computing yields a reliable and trustworthy knowledge about the behavior of computational (engineered) systems. One of the relevant methodological and epistemological questions is what sort of knowledge is it and how it relates to our understanding of the world, including our understanding of humans. It is of interest to know what aspects of Computing could be labeled “Science” in a rigorous classical sense, and how knowledge produced within Computing enriches both our understanding of the world and our potential for further learning about the world and acting in the world, (see [1] and [2]). As we are building Knowledge Society, our understanding of knowledge production, both on the level of Cognitive Science and on the level of technological enhancements provided by ICT is becoming strategically important. In this context a very general view of Computing as Science and Computing as Engineering is needed wherefrom also necessity follows of understanding of Computing in both Philosophy of Science and Philosophy of Engineering contexts. In short, engineers have discovered the innovative potential of broad insights into the discipline, which gives tangible comparative advantage. Knowing about underlying mechanisms and structures for knowledge production helps us look out of the box and find novel approaches, which is especially important in constructive and design research.