Question 1: Overview - Theoretical and Conceptual Knowledge



Question 1: Overview - Theoretical and Conceptual Knowledge

Part 1

Theory

A theory is a set of logically interrelated statements that explain a certain topic or subject. The word theory means contemplation, reflection, insight, scientific approach. It originally referred to the contemplation of truth through pure thought, regardless of their realization. A good theory must be able to make predictions confirmable by new experiments or observations. Theories serve as hypotheses about complex sets of laws established by previous theories. Ellis, T. & Levy, Y. (2008) argue that depending on the scientific theoretical standpoint; the term theory is explained in different ways. A theory typically contains descriptive (descriptive) and explanatory (causal) statements about certain part of the reality. On this basis, predictions and recommendations are derived. Theories are usually associated with the claim, through observations (e.g. by experiments or other methods of observation) to examine.

According to Harlow (2009), the theories are created for two reasons. First, individuals with the help of theories try to simplify the reality, so that they can somehow understand and thus control or adapt to it. Secondly, after the understanding of reality is reached, the theory can serve as a guide to check its validity. Theory rationalized expectations, or predictions about the real world, which, through appropriate research methods can be compared with the reality (Gelso, 2006). In relation to a specific research project established theories can be a starting point from which hypotheses is derived and survey instruments are developed to test the same.

Nature and Types of Theory

Humans build theories to explain, predict and master different phenomena (inanimate things, events, or behavior of animals). In many circumstances, the theory is seen as a model of reality. A theory makes generalizations about observations and consists of coherent and interrelated ideas. Wacker (1998) argues that a theory must be verifiable in some way, for example, one can theorize that an apple will fall when he was released, and then drop an apple to see what happens. Many scientists argue that beliefs religious are not verifiable and, therefore, are not theories but matters of faith. There are two categories of ideas that can lead to theories, if an assumption is not supported by observations is known as a conjecture, however, if well supported, is a hypothesis. Many assumptions turn out to be false and, therefore, do not evolve. According to Corley, K. & Gioia, D. (2011), theories can be accepted if they are able to make correct predictions and more elegant mathematically, tend to be accepted preferably on those that are more complex. The process of accepting theories, or to extend existing theories, is part of the scientific method.

Constitution of a Theory

In popular parlance, a theory is often seen as little more than a guess or hypothesis. On the other hand, in the science and general academic use, a theory is much more than that: it is a paradigm that explains much established or all of the data that are available and offers valid predictions ...