Question

What are the basic types and purposes of theory in relation to theory practice and research?

Answer 1

Answer 2

The types and purposes of theory in relation to theory practice and research

• RESEARCH – Process of inquiry
• THEORY – Product of knowledge
• SCIENCE – Result of the relationship between research & theory
• To effectively build knowledge to research process should be developed within some theoretical structure that facilities analysis and interpretation of findings.
• Relationship between theory and research in nursing is not well understood.

Relationship Between Theory and Research

• Research without theory results in discreet information or data which does not add to the accumulated knowledge of the discipline.
• Theory guides the research process, forms the research questions, aids in design, analysis and interpretation.
• It enables the scientist to weave the facts together.
• The relationship is direct and positive
• The choice of a research design depends on the question asked and the current state of theory development.
• Theory and its associated research design may be
  • Descriptive
  • Correlational
  • Experimental

Purpose of Theory in Research

• To identify meaningful and relevant areas for study.
• To propose plausible approaches to health problems.
• To develop or refine theories
• Define the concepts and proposed relationships between concepts.
• To interpret research findings
• To develop clinical practice protocols.
• To generate nursing diagnosis.

Conclusion: The relationship between research and theory is undeniable, and it is important to recognize the impact of this relationships on the development of nursing knowledge. So interface theory and research by generating theories, testing the theories and by using it as a conceptual framework that drives the study.