Friday, February 5, 2016

A proposed systems-based Housing Imagination evaluation framework for research and pedagogical practices

A proposed systems-based Housing Imagination evaluation framework for research and pedagogical practices

Joseph Kim-Keung Ho
Independent Trainer
Hong Kong, China
Dated: February 5, 2016
Abstract:
For a new subject in Housing Studies (HS), Housing Imagination (HI) needs to establish its theoretical foundation more clearly, which includes the formulation of HI methodologies and theoretical frameworks. This task is taken up in this paper, which proposes a systems-based HI evaluation framework for examining Housing Studies-related phenomena. It is argued that such kind of theoretical frameworks and methodologies are also useful for improving pedagogical practices on HI. Other than that, the paper recommends more usage of real-life examples for illustration in HI pedagogical practices. Finally, this paper lauds the value of mutual learning between (a) HI theoretical development efforts and (b) HI pedagogical practices as well as the contribution of contemporary systems thinking to HI theoretical development.

Key words:    a systems-based HI evaluation framework, Housing Imagination, inquiry system, pedagogical practices, system complexity, systems thinking

An earlier version of the paper appears in the journal of European Academic Research as: Ho, J.K.K. 2014. “An Elaboration of a Systems-based Housing Imagination Evaluation Framework for Research and Pedagogical Practices” European Academic Research 2(4) July: 5099-5121.

Introduction
As a newly established subject, Housing Imagination (HI) needs a clearly articulated and sound theoretical foundation.  While its intellectual root and its core investigation approach have been described in Ho (2014a; 2014b), both its methodologies, theoretical frameworks as well as pedagogical practices need to be further clarified, enriched and refined. This paper examines three HI issues as related to theoretical development and pedagogical practices:
Issue 1: How can an HI approach produce valid knowledge for Housing Studies?
Issue 2: How can an HI approach be capable in investigating HI phenomena and issues that very often possess tremendous soft complexity?
Issue 3: How can the subject of HI be taught to students more effectively?

The first issue is related to the topic of Inquiry System (IS) while the second issue touches on the notion of system complexity and the need for HI methodologies capable of dealing with high system complexity.  These two issues are inter-related. Clarifying these two issues contribute to improved HI pedagogical practices (Issue 3). The ensuing discussion is going to address these issues in details.

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For further details of the article, please click on this link.

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