wk28010

, Week 2: Theory

Theory is a natural extension of the philosophy of science, and a theoretical framework(s) will typically underpin most research studies. As you evaluate research, and consider your own research topic, you will find that "philosophy, theory, and method are interrelated and fit together like pieces in a puzzle . . . One's philosophical perspectives affect the way one chooses a theoretical perspective" (Miller & Burbank, 1994, as cited in Burkholder & Burbank, p. 14).

This week, you will explore two pieces of this puzzle as you consider the role of theory in research and apply what you learned from last week to understanding the connection between philosophical orientations and the epistemological and ontological assumptions of theory. You will also use research databases to identify a theory in your discipline and explain its basic tenets.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

· Explain role of theory in research

· Use research databases and scholarly sources to identity a theory in your discipline

· Explain basic tenets of a theory

· Describe alignment between epistemological and ontological assumptions of a theory and philosophical orientations

· Apply APA Style to writing

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https://class.content.laureate.net/fc0b90ae41b5be7d0e7daef723b19ea1.pdf

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urkholder, G. J., Cox, K. A., Crawford, L. M., & Hitchcock, J.H. (Eds.) (2020). Research design and methods: An applied guide for the scholar-practitioner. SAGE Publications, Inc.

· Chapter 3, "Conceptual and Theoretical Frameworks in Research"

Babbie, E. (2017). Basics of social research (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.

· Chapter 2, “Paradigms, Theory, and Research”

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http://academicguides.waldenu.edu/searchingfinding

Laureate Education (Producer). (2009f). Theory [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

 

Note: The approximate length of this media piece is 23 minutes.

 

Dr. Patton discusses the “big picture” of theory.

 

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