heory defines, assumes, proposes, explains, and predicts what the research outcome is likely to prove (right or wrong). It is an integrated body of propositions, assumptions, and definitions that are related in explaining and predicting relationships between two or more variables. Theory could be any of the following:
deductive
inductive
grounded
axiomatic
On the other hand, hypotheses are statements or assertions derived from theory that can be tested by scientific inquiry and that are capable of being refuted, and their tests may result in support or nonsupport for the theory from which they were derived.
Scenario
You have been hired as a consultant by the local police commissioner to lend your expertise on criminal justice research for the education of the police captains, who will be developing a new citywide crime prevention strategy. As an introductory task in this position, you are to write a letter to the local police captains explaining the theories used to approach your research.
Prepare a 5–7 page letter to the captains of the police precincts that address the following questions:
What are the key differences between the 4 identified types of research theories above?
Is any one type of theory more valid than the others? Why or why not?
What are the differences and similarities (if any) between theory and hypothesis?
What are variables, and why are they important components of theoretical schemes?
Please submit your assignment.
Grading Criteria
Key differences
25%
Analysis of theory
30%
Comparison of theory and hypothesis
20%
Variables of theoretical schemes
20%
APA citations and references
5%
5-7 pages
APA format
At least 6 reliable references and in text citations are a must (please use numbers to mark the location of the in text. e.g. for reference number 1 use in text citation (1)
WIKIPEDIA, Yahoo Answers, or similar websites may NEVER be used or cited under any circumstances
No direct quotations. Please paraphrase
