INRS 7311 : An Introduction to Definitions , Paradigms and Theories in Research Theme 3 Theories in Research

Question 1

Discuss the nature and characteristics of theory . 12 marks

Answer 1

• Broad definition : Systematic description of concepts , constructs and relationships of specific processes or phenomena in a given discipline .
• Nature of theories = Theories are only partial explanations that will never fully explain the human condition . Theories are all subject to change as they can be altered via existing evidence to support an alternate view .
• Types of theory = Common sense theories(based on opinions) , working theories(accepted ways of doing things) , scholarly theories(constructed using evidence gotten via systematic research)

Question 2

Explain the basic components of theory 15 marks

Answer 2

• Assumptions : An unconfirmed first statement about the theory . Serves as a departure point .
• Concepts : A label and a definition . Important so as not to lose meaning in relation to the research .
• Relationships : Exist between concepts and explains the basic association between them . Described by a theoretical statement .
• Explanation and prediction : Prediction is a statement of certainty about a particular outcome . Explanation includes a logical argument .
• Causal explanation : Interpretive = an increased understanding of a particular event .Structural : Allows the placing of the event in a broader structure .

Question 3

Explain the functions of a theory 6 marks

Answer 3

• 1: To organize a range of experiences into smaller categories
• 2: To ID and select which concepts/area of an event should be studied .
• 3a(Qualitative) : Predict and control aspects of a phenomenon
• 3b : ID which variables are used to test a phenomenon .
• 4: Challenge status quo / contest a particular social practice / generate new ways of thinking .
• 5 : Promote a particular concept .
• 6 : Explain the relationship between concepts .

Question 4

Explain the criteria used for evaluating theories : 18 possible marks .

Answer 4

• Theoretical scope : Refers to how broad or general a theory is in explaining a phenomenon or range of phenomenon . Theory must find balance of being broad and specific .
• Appropriateness : Relates to the soundness and consistency between a theory and its underlying assumptions .
• Heuristic value: Does the theory stimulate further investigation and discovery of new ideas related to the theory .
• Validity : Relates to the truth value of the experience described . How truthfully does the theory relate the experience it describes .
• Parsimony : How simply does a theory explain complex aspects of a phenomenon .
• Openness : The degree of flexibility in which the theory allows other explanations , interpretations and improvements to it .

Question 5

Illustrate, explain and provide examples of inductive and deductive reasoning . 6-8 marks

Answer 5

*Inductive reasoning : We infer theoretical concepts from collected data from a study . We move from SPECIFIC to the general . Often referred to as bottom up approach . eg I had a good English teacher last year . I have a good English teacher this year . Therefore , all English teacher are good .

Deductive : Goes from general assumptions to specific . Also referred to as top down theorising . e.g : South Africa has warm weather . Durban is in South Africa . Therefore Durban has warm weather .

Question 6

Explain the steps in developing a theoretical framework . 24 possible marks

Answer 6

• 1 : Develop a provisional title and problem statement .
• 2; ID and underline important title words .
• 3:Use underlined words to create mind map
• 4:Use the WEB/Journals to find previous studies on your underlined keywords .
• 5 : Explore the theories used by researchers from those studies .
• 6: Refine your title/problem statement if necessary .
• 7 : ID main researchers and theories of the particular discipline .
• 8:ID the criticisms of your chosen theories and its limitations .
• 9:Embed your framework into broader context
• 10: Construct conceptual framework using concepts
• 11: Write your framework/check writing, language/ use explicit theoretical assumptions/precise descriptions of concepts
• 12 : Referencing .