THEORY IN THE DISSERTATION.pptVIP

Giele, Theory in the Dissertation, 10-9-06 THEORY IN THE DISSERTATION Professor Janet Zollinger Giele Heller School, Brandeis University October 9, 2006 OUTLINE The nature of theory Three main types of theory Quantitative or qualitative expression Finding “your” theory Writing: Theory in the proposal and the dissertation References I. The nature of theory Serves as a map Main elements: An outcome (dependent variable) contributing factors (indep vars) Statement of relationship Defining characteristics Parsimony, generalizabilitiy II. Main types of theory Focus on figure, ground, or interaction, e. g.: heredity of individual environmental influences, interaction of the two Work of Stinchcombe: Demographic Functional Historicist III a. Quantitative expression Quantitative method (when counting, weighing, and relative magnitude are important) population-based Theory is a “model” that takes mathematical form: [outcome]=[constant] +[independent variables] Y = K + b1X1+ b2X2+ b3X3 …+ bjXj III b. Qualitative expression Qualitative method (when symbol, metaphor, meaning, and reasons for action are important) individual-based Theory is a “grammar” that links agent, purpose, means, and scene to action (K. Burke) Act = agent + purpose + means +scene IV. FINDING “YOUR” THEORY Be clear on your question Relate your theory to your method (numbers or words) Review the literature for main theories relevant to your question Pay attention to which levels of theory—society, institutions, groups, individuals—fit your question Strive for elegance and parsimony by reduction to key elements and connection to the classics. Avoid epigones and total novelty. V a. Theory in the Dissertation Ch. 2 of a 6-chapter dissertation: Background and Significance of Problem Theory, model, hypotheses Methods Findings (descriptive) Findings (explanatory) Research and Policy Implications V b. Theory in the Proposal Section 2 of a 35-45 pp. proposal Background and Significance of Problem