You may have heard the term "Grounded Theory" (GT) while studying or conducting qualitative research. Although the grounded theory is extremely popular, very few students understand its workings, key concepts and elements. This article provides a comprehensive overview of this systematic theory.
FAQs about Grounded theory
What is Grounded Theory Code?
The concept of grounded theory coding involves the labelling and re-categorizing of data that have been collected and analysed systematically. It means combining similar data segments into a single category using short codes or names.
Coding forms the core of grounded theory. It is used to abstract concepts and integrate data. In a grounded-theory study, there are two types of coding: substantive coding and theoretic coding.
What is the difference between substantive and theoretical coding?
The substantive coding process involves conceptualizing data from the study or research area. It is based on data that supports the theories under study. Substantive Coding includes both open and select coding. The researcher breaks down the raw data, analyzes it and sorts it in a systematic manner.
Theoretical coding is more focused and uses codes formed initially to organize, sort, analyze, synthesize or integrate large amounts of data. Theoretical codes are hypotheses that support a particular theory.
What is the purpose of grounded theory?
Studies based on grounded theory are different because they follow a set of rules. This study is governed by many rules to allow the researcher to be creative in generating new concepts and ideas to explain patterns of behavior.
The GT is different from other methods of study because it integrates real data, which has been systematically collected and analyzed. The GT seeks to provide space for new conceptual ideas that can either strengthen or challenge existing information.
Definition of Grounded Theories
Grounded Theory is a methodology which involves systematic data collection, analysis and interpretation to explain certain behaviour concepts. This theory is grounded on real data. That is, the researcher will only develop and analyze theories after collecting all the relevant information. In 1967, Barney Glaser developed the theory with Anselm Struss to legitimize research that was qualitative. Social scientists have used this systematic method for many years to carry out quantitative research.
What are different methods of calculating?
The framework for the systematic theory is based on:
- Purposive Sampling: This is the method of collecting or generating data. In this case, the researcher chooses data sources and participants that will answer the research questions.
- Constant Comparative Analysis: A process of analysis used to develop categories and codes.
- Note-taking: Notes are written to store ideas.
- Collecting Data: Gathering relevant data by means of interviews, focus group, questionnaires, surveys, etc.
- Coding Labelling, categorizing and labeling the collected data.
- Initial Coding: Fracturing Raw Data to Identify Patterns of Similarity and Differences
- Theoretical Samples: To develop theoretical categories
- Intermediate Coding Develops the theory by building on the initial coding.
- Advanced code: Determines initial concepts to be represented in the theory.
- Theoretical sensibility: Offers an insight into what's significant and meaningful in theory development.
- This is a theory that has been proven to be true.
Grounded Theory Example
To help you better understand this method, a simple study about bullying at schools is an example. The researcher begins by selecting participants using purposive sample.
The students participating in this event should have already been through the ordeal.
They use a variety of data collection tools, including interviews, surveys, focus groups and videos. They then proceed to sampling and coding in order to develop a grounded theoretical model. This study could be designed to identify bullying phases and their impact on individuals.
Students who use the grounded theory method face the challenge of creating a research proposal that meets the requirements for an academic paper. Here are some suggestions on how to incorporate GT into academic writing.
- According to this theory, research leads to research questions. As a scientist, you begin your fieldwork without having a specific research question. As you continue your research, you will formulate these questions.
- Unlike with other study methods, the literature is reviewed later, when you use grounded theory. To avoid introducing existing knowledge to your study, you should delay the literature review phase. When writing your paper, use this method of study to ensure you pay attention to the details.
