Examining Theoretical Basis
Many terms have been used in connection with conceptual contexts for research, including theories, Models, frameworks, schemes and maps. There is some overlap in how these terms are being used, partly because they are used differently by different writers, partly because they are interrelated.
Theories
The term theory is used in many ways. For example, nursing instructors and students frequently use the term to refer to the content covered in classrooms, as opposed to the actual practice of performing nursing activities. In both lay and scientific usage, the term theory connotes an abstraction.
In research circles, the term theory used in various ways by different authors. Classically, scientists have used theory to refer to an abstract generalization that offers a systematic explanation about how phenomena are interrelated. The traditional definition requires theory to embody at least two concepts that are related in a manner that the theory purpose is to explain.
Others, however, used the term theory less restrictively to refer to a broad characterization of a phenomenon. According to this less restrictive definition, a theory can account for (i.e., thoroughly described) a single phenomenon. Some authors specifically refer to this type of theory as descriptive theory. For example, Fawcett (1999) defines descriptive theories as empirically driven theories that “describe or classify specific dimensions or characteristics of individuals, groups, situations, or events by summarizing commonalities found in discrete observations” (p.15). Descriptive theory plays an especially important role in qualitative studies. Qualitative researchers often strive to develop a conceptualization of the phenomena under study that is grounded in actual observations.
Components of Traditional Theory
As traditionally defined, scientific theories involve a series of propositions regarding interrelationships among concepts. The writings of scientific theory include a
Theories
The term theory is used in many ways. For example, nursing instructors and students frequently use the term to refer to the content covered in classrooms, as opposed to the actual practice of performing nursing activities. In both lay and scientific usage, the term theory connotes an abstraction.
In research circles, the term theory used in various ways by different authors. Classically, scientists have used theory to refer to an abstract generalization that offers a systematic explanation about how phenomena are interrelated. The traditional definition requires theory to embody at least two concepts that are related in a manner that the theory purpose is to explain.
Others, however, used the term theory less restrictively to refer to a broad characterization of a phenomenon. According to this less restrictive definition, a theory can account for (i.e., thoroughly described) a single phenomenon. Some authors specifically refer to this type of theory as descriptive theory. For example, Fawcett (1999) defines descriptive theories as empirically driven theories that “describe or classify specific dimensions or characteristics of individuals, groups, situations, or events by summarizing commonalities found in discrete observations” (p.15). Descriptive theory plays an especially important role in qualitative studies. Qualitative researchers often strive to develop a conceptualization of the phenomena under study that is grounded in actual observations.
Components of Traditional Theory
As traditionally defined, scientific theories involve a series of propositions regarding interrelationships among concepts. The writings of scientific theory include a
References: Ritchie, J. & Lewis, J. (2003). Qualitative Research Practice: A Guide for Social Science Students and Researchers. SAGE Publications Inc. Ridenour, C.S. & Benz, C.R. & Newman, I. (2008). Mixed methods research: Exploring the interactive continuum. Southern Illinois University: board of trustees Crowther, D. & Lancaster, G. (2009). Research Methods: A concise Introduction to research in management and business consultancy. 2nd ed. Jordan Hill, oxford OX2 8DP, UK: Elsevier ltd Linacre house Mertens, D.M. (2008). Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology: Integrating Diversity with quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods. 3rd ed. SAGE Publications Inc. Polit, D.F. & Beck, C.T. (2008). Nursing Research: Generating and Assessing Evidence for Nursing Practice. 8th Ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Retrieved on February 20, 2013 at http://libguides.usc.edu/content.php?pid=83009&sid=618409 Retrieved on February 20, 2013 at http://dissertationhelponline.blogspot.com/2011/06/deductive-and-inductive-research.html