What does 'contextualization' in research refer to?

Contextualization in research refers to the practice of placing research findings within a broader framework that includes social, cultural, or historical dimensions. This approach helps to understand how the results relate to the world outside of the immediate research parameters. By situating findings within context, researchers can provide a deeper interpretation and relevance to their work. It allows for a more comprehensive analysis by acknowledging that data does not exist in a vacuum and can be influenced by various external factors.

In contrast, limiting the scope of research to specific cases does not take into account the wider implications and can lead to narrow conclusions. Recording data in controlled environments may not capture the fluidity of real-world situations, and documenting only quantitative findings overlooks qualitative insights that could enhance understanding. Therefore, contextualization enriches the research process by ensuring the findings are interpreted with a full awareness of their significance in a larger societal framework.