Forschung
Dr Zagami's epistemology takes a postpositivist metatheoretical stance with ontological realism, the desirability of objective truth, and the primacy of the quantitative true experimental methodology supported by a contribution from qualitative methods to produce propositions (informed assertions) from specific cases for externally valid generalisable quantitative verification of internally valid causal relationships.
Dr Zagami works in the framework of grand theories and structural functionalism with the application of consensus theory (epitomised by the scientific method) over conflict theory and of social systems representing a complex meta-organism with currently non-sentient agency memes, analysable using structuration theory and action theory.
Dr Zagami is generally a reductionist and supports the principles of universalism and the concept of a unified science. He does not however adhere to the dichotomy of reductionism and holism when applied as approaches to research, particularly in the application of systems theory and social ecological models such that they are complementary contributors, consilience of social science and science, that together contribute towards a unity of science.
In research on new technologies, Dr Zagami uses field experiments, most significant change, delphi method (and similar expert consensus processes) and Scandinavian activity theory to explore the trends and use of technology in educational organisations and society. Within this framework he applies social ecological models to atomise social elements for the study of their specific application to theories of technology.
In his research on professional learning networks, Dr Zagami applies a background in operations research to systems thinking, complexity theory, social network analysis and the general application of network theory to computational sociology.
In his research on cognition and learning processes, Dr Zagami uses a mental model framework coupled with experimental modelling.
Dr Zagami is aware of the dichotomic positions but approaches these as opportunities to reframe existing dogmas and paradigms.