Methods of research design and analysis for identifying knowledge resources

Resource theory has proven to be a useful framework for investigating knowledge and learning within PER and beyond. As a first step when using this theory, one must identify and describe the resources activated within and across physics contexts. Then, those resources can be used to analyze learning over longer timescales and across individual cases of learning.  However, there has been minimal prior work presenting a dependable method for identifying resources. In a recent PR-PER article, we have presented some guidelines for the design of research aimed at identifying knowledge resources. This work begins by describing the origin, assumptions, and utility of resource theory. We then introduce data collection and analysis methods that can result in the identification of knowledge resources.  We discuss the importance of situating the data collection in learning environments where learners are comfortable describing their experiences and sharing their thoughts, mainly in an interview or small group environments that forefront the authentic discussion of ideas. To identify resources in qualitative data analysis, we discuss the knowledge analysis (KA) family of methodological strategies for studying knowledge's structure, function, and dynamics. We present a three-stage cycle of (i) the identification of notable episodes within the data where resources might be present, (ii) the characterization of data to build and refine a rough schema of resources, and (iii) the organization, generalization, and broadening of the developed theory. To guide one’s decision-making across all stages of the research process, we present a series of principles for identifying resources. We end with a discussion of validity and reliability, drawing connections with general principles of qualitative research. With this work, we hope to promote coordination among the many PER scholars who utilize resource theory and to invite new scholars to join in its application and development.