Theory and the Real World    

Research serves as a guide by which to study, describe, and quantify an array of social and physical phenomenon. Theory, which is best described as a set of propositions or hypotheses that specify the relationship among a subset of variables, serves as a way of offering an intellectualized general commentary on that which is observed. Using material found in Chapter 3 of this week’s required reading, describe how theory is applicable to a research study. Answer the questions: 

• How does theory inform a research study? 
• How can a generalized theory remain timely enough to be applicable to new or innovative studies? 

Your initial post should be at least 400 words in length. Support your claims with examples from the required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources, and properly cite any references.

Guided Response: Review your colleagues’ posts, and substantively respond to at least three of your peers by Day 7. Consider some specific measures by which theory can be applied to the development and conduct of a research problem, as well as the application of what is learned through a research study. Each of your responses should be at least 200 words in length. Continue to monitor the discussion forum until 5:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) on Day 7, and respond with robust dialogue to anyone who replies to your initial post.