Lecture #3 Theory And Logic Systems In Communication Research

Front 1

Deductive Approach

Back 1

-gives primacy to theory : start with theory first
-theory guides investigation
-gather data to assess whether theory is correct
-move from known position to data

Front 2

Inductive Approach

Back 2

-gives primacy to observation : start with observation and then come up with a theory

Front 3

Deductive Research Model

Back 3

1) identify the research problem
2) Review theory and research findings
3) Formulate the research question or hypothesis
4) Design the methods and procedures
5) Gather data
6) Analyze and interpret data
7) Ask new questions

Front 4

Deductive Theory Requirements:
Falsification:
Tentativeness:

Back 4

- refers to the extent that the theoretical propositions cannot be supported by the evidence, you have to find evidence that disproves your theory
-theories are not set in stone. Theories can be revised if we cannot find evidence to support them

Front 5

Functions of a theory:
Description:
Explanation:
Prediction:
Control:

Back 5

- theory tells you what happened
-theory tells you why something happened
-theory allows us to forecast what will happen
-scholars use theory to create particular outcomes

Front 6

Deductive Approach Advantages

Back 6

- are not limited to phenomenon we can observe at that time.
-free to take advantage of serendipity (unexpected findings)
-Promotes efficient research because variables of interest are identified at the outset

Front 7

Deductive Approach Disadvantages

Back 7

-Research may force a theoretical explanation when it is inappropriate
-Theories have followers and may have outlived their usefulness
-theories are difficult to construct

Front 8

Inductive Research Model

Back 8

1)Identify the research problem
2)Consider existing research findings
3)Develop the research question
4)Design the methods and procedures
5)Gather data
6) Analyze and interpret data
7)Develop theory
8)Ask new questions

Front 9

Inductive Approach Advantages

Back 9

-one does not enter research with predetermine expectations
-one may feel free to follow the unexpected directions
-one is close to the data and this allows them to really understand the difference between abstraction and concrete things

Front 10

Inductive Approach Disadvantages

Back 10

-Limited to the phenomenon that can currently be studied
-Cannot test alternative theoretical explanations
-Inefficient research because key variables are not identified early

Front 11

Quantitative

Back 11

-uses numerical data
-deductive logic system
-assumption that reality it objective and measurable
-the purpose is to measure relationships among variables

Front 12

Qualitative

Back 12

-No numbers (typically)
-Inductive logic system
-Assumption is that reality is construction in interaction
-THe purpose is to understand and describe how participants see the world
-when something needs to be explored more in depth