Theory is usually used to explain certain conditions and events in society. It’s can be viewed as a collaboration between agreeing thought that has been developed over time. In social research the role of a theory differs depending on the type of methodologies and methods used to conduct the research. This paper aims to look at the relevance of theory and context of theory to a study by referring to grand theory and meta – theory. The aim is to do this firstly by looking at what a theory is and the nature of theory development. It will discuss how a single thought can be developed into a theory and how theories develop and become adaptable to the changing world. It will also look at the different levels of theories with a special focus on meta theory and grand theories. Relevant theories of social sciences but mainly political sciences will be used where applicable to highlight the different levels of theories. This paper also aims to explain the uses of theory when conducting social research and why we use theory to conduct research. In this section the focus will be place on the position and role of theory in Qualitative and Quantitative studies. The section that follows will examine how theory is analysed in social sciences, it will discuss the steps of theory analysis. This paper will also look at the relationship between theory, research and practice, here emphasis will be placed on the role and relevance of theory in improving practice through research.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Theory and theory development
- The relevance of theory to a study
- Role of theory in Qualitative and Quantitative Research
- Grand theory and Meta Theory
- Theory analysis
- Theory, Research and Practice
- Relationship between research and theory
- Relationship between theory and practice
- Relationship between research and practice
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper aims to examine the relevance of theory in research, particularly within the context of social sciences. It explores the nature of theory development and its role in understanding social phenomena. The paper also delves into the use of theory in different research methodologies and examines the relationship between theory, research, and practice.
- The nature of theory development and its key characteristics
- The role of theory in guiding research design and analysis
- The significance of theory in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies
- The relationship between theory, research, and practice
- The application of theory in understanding social issues and improving practice
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction: This chapter provides a general overview of the paper's focus and objectives. It emphasizes the importance of theory in explaining social phenomena and outlines the different aspects of theory that will be explored throughout the paper.
- Theory and theory development: This chapter explores the definition and development of theory. It discusses how theories are formulated, tested, and adapted to changing societal contexts, using examples from social sciences. The chapter also examines the criteria for a good theory and the importance of continuous adaptation and evolution.
- The relevance of theory to a study: This chapter delves into the significance of theory in research, highlighting its role in guiding research design, shaping understanding of social phenomena, and generating new knowledge. It examines three key perspectives on the relevance of theory: theory as a paradigm, theory as a lens, and theory as knowledge.
Keywords
The paper focuses on key terms like theory development, social research, qualitative research, quantitative research, grand theory, meta-theory, theory analysis, research design, epistemology, ontology, and the relationship between theory, research, and practice. It uses these concepts to explore the role of theory in understanding and addressing social issues.
- Quote paper
- Anele Mngadi (Author), 2018, The role of theory in research and practice, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/444409
