The role of theory in research - Term Paper Example

The role of “theory” in research The Role of “Theory” in Research The main objective of any investigation exercises is to explain the nature of an event or an occurrence and offer the possible reasons behind the occurrence. Concurrently, theories in a research try to explain the reasons behind the behavior of a given phenomenon. Therefore, a theory is an over-generalization about a phenomenon that explains the manner and the reasons behind certain occurrences. One can guess the reasons behind detailed occurrences by observing the behavior of some phenomenon.

The validation of these guesses requires the performance of experiments. In an event that the guesses are established by the experiment, then a theory emerges. A powerful theory should give the reason why something is happening and subsequently give predictions on what will follow. Role of theories in researchTheory plays an essential role in research because it helps to establish an understanding and the prediction of the intended results. This necessitates the introduction of the necessary interventions.

These focus on the deterrence and mitigation of the harm that might emanate from the research study (Lewis-Beck, Bryman & Liao, 2004). Additionally, theories assist in the development of organizational behavior that is essential for the implementation and evaluation. This is vital because it determines the most appropriate mechanism of action. The explanation of the manner in which things work in a research is equally important. Besides the provision of knowledge, such explanations have the potential of providing the solutions.

An individual can only fix something after understanding what went wrong (Sekaran & Bougie, 2010). The relationship between theory and components of the studyThe components of study for any given research are the processes of doing an inquiry. Theory in a research assists in the harmonization of the information and data thereby adding up to the accumulated knowledge and discipline. The key components of the research process include research questions, analysis, aids in design and interpretation.

Apparently, theory guides the process of attaining all these components. Additionally, theories enable researchers to merge data together in a positive and direct manner.Theory as a basis for selecting research approachIt is important to first identify the aim and expectation of the research prior to the research process. The actual work comes after outlining all the possible outcomes that pertain to the intended study. These expected outcomes are the theories that eventually form the basis of the research.

Incidentally, the form of approach to any research entails the way in which the research should be conducted. Careful thinking and focused attention is applicable in selecting the best approach for a particular research study because there are several approaches (Lewis-Beck, Bryman & Liao, 2004). Besides, theory also supports the most common approaches such as discussions with experts, reading from relevant materials and participation and presentation. This is because theory encourages the use of a number of approaches that make it simple for interpretation and analysis of the results.

Some of the approaches include computer programs, numerical calculations, preparation of tables and graphs and the use of theoretical calculations (Desai & Potter, 2006).The success of any research study must be based on the formulation and implementation of correct theories. Therefore, theories are very important to any research study as they guide all its steps. Failure to apply theories may limit the success of an investigation exercise. ReferencesDesai, V., & Potter, R. (2006). Doing Development Research.

London: SAGE.Lewis-Beck, M. S., Bryman, A., & Liao, T. F. (2004). The Sage encyclopedia of social science research methods. Thousand Oaks, Calif: Sage Sekaran, U., & Bougie, R. (2010). Research Methods for Business: A Skill Building Approach. Chichester : John Wiley & Sons.