Q:
What Is Deductive Research?
A:
Quick Answer
A deductive, or "top-down," approach to research methodology begins with hypotheses based on existing knowledge or literature. In other words, it seeks to test an established theory.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Miguel Malo
E+
Getty Images
Full Answer
Inductive, or "bottom-up," research, by comparison, collects data and observations in order to discern a pattern within them, or to formulate a new theory.
The procedure followed by deductive research can be summarized as follows:
- Theory, starting with existing knowledge or assumptions.
- Hypothesis, formulating a research question or hypothesis based on existing knowledge, theories or assumptions.
- Observation, or data collection.
- Confirmation, conclusions drawn on the basis of the observations or data collected, ultimately leading to either confirmation or rejection of the initial theory.
Sources:
Related Questions
-
Q:
What Were the Humanistic Theorists Criticized For?
A: Critics of the humanistic perspective in psychology point to its subjectivity and ideological basis when they question theories constructed under this appr... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is a Dialectical Journal?
A: The purpose of a dialectical journal is for the reader to write down interesting, memorable or important passages in a text as he reads literature. By writ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is the Difference Between Syntactic Knowledge and Semantic Knowledge?
A: Syntactic knowledge involves the way that words are assembled and sentences are constructed in a particular language, while semantic knowledge involves the... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are Some Tips for Using a Root Cause Analysis Template?
A: Some tips for using a root cause analysis template include collecting sufficient and accurate data, not relying on your own knowledge as the main source of... Full Answer >Filed Under:
