Midterm #1 - Theories and Models

Question 1

theory

Answer 1

• plausible explanatory propositions
• link possible causes to effects
• broad
• explains robust phenomenon

Question 2

model

Answer 2

• narrower in scope
• theoretical context
• represent target systems

Question 3

phenomena

Answer 3

• something observed to happen

Question 4

good theories should be … ? (5 things)

Answer 4

• testable
• coherent
• economical
• generalizable
• able to explain and predict

Question 5

abstraction (model I)

Answer 5

• understand complex concepts

Question 6

explanation (model II)

Answer 6

• explain a relationship with another variable

Question 7

prediction (model III)

Answer 7

• regression model with equation

Question 8

theory development steps (4)

Answer 8

1. identify robust phenomenon
2. develop a proto-theory
3. translate into formal model
4. test and revise based on empirical data