Describe the theory and research cycle and explain the deductive and inductive approaches

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The relationship between theory and research has been referred to as a

continuous cycle. A theory is a set of logically interrelated statements that

attempts to describe, explain, and predict social events. A theory

attempts to explain why something is the way it is. Research is the

process of systematically collecting information for the purpose of testing

an existing theory or generating a new one. The theory and research

cycle consists of deductive and inductive approaches. In the deductive

approach, the researcher begins with a theory and uses research to test

the theory. This approach proceeds as follows: (1) theories generate

hypotheses, (2) hypotheses lead to observations (data gathering), (3)

observations lead to the formation of generalizations, and (4)

generalizations are used to support the theory, to suggest modifications

to it, or to refute it. In the inductive approach, the researcher collects

information or data (facts or evidence) and then generates theories from

the analysis of that data. This approach proceeds as follows: (1) specific

observations suggest generalizations, (2) generalizations produce a

tentative theory, (3) the theory is tested through the formation of

hypotheses, and (4) hypotheses may provide suggestions for additional

observations.