Ch. 5-Theory Analysis and Evaluation
*Review Box 5-3*
-Includes:
Origins
Meanings
Logical adequacy
Usefulness
Generalizability
Testability
-Theory evaluation does not generate new information outside confines of
the theory
a. Does lead to new insights about theory being examined
b. Gives insights into relationship among concepts
c. Allows viewer to look at strengths and weaknesses of theory
d. Serves to identify a theory’s usefulness in guiding practice, research,
education and admin
e. Ultimate goal is to determine potential contribution of theory to
scientific knowledge
-3 phase process
1. Theory description: works of theories are reviewed to understand that
theories’ structural components—assumptions, concepts, propositions
a. Functional components: concepts of the theory and how they are
used to describe, explain, predict or control
2. Theory analysis: non judgemental examination of the content, structure,
and function of theory
a. Conducted if theory or framework has the potential for being useful
3. Theory evaluation: theory’s potential for contribution to the discipline’s
knowledge base is examined
a. involves critical reflection to see how well a theory serves its
purpose
b. results in decision or action—consideration of impact on direct nsg
practice and interventions and whether or not it contributes to favorable
outcomes
Common criteria for theory evaluation:
-Complexity/simplicity
-Scope/generality
*Review Box 5-3*
-Includes:
Origins
Meanings
Logical adequacy
Usefulness
Generalizability
Testability
-Theory evaluation does not generate new information outside confines of
the theory
a. Does lead to new insights about theory being examined
b. Gives insights into relationship among concepts
c. Allows viewer to look at strengths and weaknesses of theory
d. Serves to identify a theory’s usefulness in guiding practice, research,
education and admin
e. Ultimate goal is to determine potential contribution of theory to
scientific knowledge
-3 phase process
1. Theory description: works of theories are reviewed to understand that
theories’ structural components—assumptions, concepts, propositions
a. Functional components: concepts of the theory and how they are
used to describe, explain, predict or control
2. Theory analysis: non judgemental examination of the content, structure,
and function of theory
a. Conducted if theory or framework has the potential for being useful
3. Theory evaluation: theory’s potential for contribution to the discipline’s
knowledge base is examined
a. involves critical reflection to see how well a theory serves its
purpose
b. results in decision or action—consideration of impact on direct nsg
practice and interventions and whether or not it contributes to favorable
outcomes
Common criteria for theory evaluation:
-Complexity/simplicity
-Scope/generality
