RSE4801
ASSIGNMENT 4 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
, Research in Education
Section 1: Introduction and Background
Introduction
The proposition that “theory is the engine of research” implies that theoretical constructs
serve as the driving force behind scientific inquiry. Much like an engine powers a
vehicle, theory is seen as the mechanism that motivates, sustains, and directs research
activities. Without theory, research risks becoming fragmented, unguided, or limited to
mere description. Yet this metaphor deserves critical examination. While theory often
provides the conceptual blueprint for knowledge advancement, not all research begins
or ends with theory, and in some traditions, theory emerges only after empirical
engagement. This section introduces the key ideas surrounding theory, clarifies what is
meant by engine in this metaphor, and situates the debate in the wider literature on
research methodology.
What Is Theory?
Theory has been defined in multiple ways across disciplines. Kerlinger (1979) offered
one of the most cited definitions, describing theory as “a set of interrelated constructs,
definitions, and propositions that presents a systematic view of phenomena by
specifying relations among variables, with the purpose of explaining and predicting the
phenomena” (p. 64). This view emphasizes the explanatory and predictive roles of
theory. Similarly, Grant and Osanloo (2014) argue that theory provides the blueprint for
a study, linking the research problem, literature, methodology, and analysis.
In practice, theories serve several functions:
1. Explanation – making sense of observed phenomena.
2. Prediction – allowing researchers to anticipate future outcomes.
3. Guidance – shaping questions, hypotheses, and design.
4. Integration – connecting disparate findings into coherent frameworks.
ASSIGNMENT 4 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
, Research in Education
Section 1: Introduction and Background
Introduction
The proposition that “theory is the engine of research” implies that theoretical constructs
serve as the driving force behind scientific inquiry. Much like an engine powers a
vehicle, theory is seen as the mechanism that motivates, sustains, and directs research
activities. Without theory, research risks becoming fragmented, unguided, or limited to
mere description. Yet this metaphor deserves critical examination. While theory often
provides the conceptual blueprint for knowledge advancement, not all research begins
or ends with theory, and in some traditions, theory emerges only after empirical
engagement. This section introduces the key ideas surrounding theory, clarifies what is
meant by engine in this metaphor, and situates the debate in the wider literature on
research methodology.
What Is Theory?
Theory has been defined in multiple ways across disciplines. Kerlinger (1979) offered
one of the most cited definitions, describing theory as “a set of interrelated constructs,
definitions, and propositions that presents a systematic view of phenomena by
specifying relations among variables, with the purpose of explaining and predicting the
phenomena” (p. 64). This view emphasizes the explanatory and predictive roles of
theory. Similarly, Grant and Osanloo (2014) argue that theory provides the blueprint for
a study, linking the research problem, literature, methodology, and analysis.
In practice, theories serve several functions:
1. Explanation – making sense of observed phenomena.
2. Prediction – allowing researchers to anticipate future outcomes.
3. Guidance – shaping questions, hypotheses, and design.
4. Integration – connecting disparate findings into coherent frameworks.
