Summary– The Grounded theory Research is used in every industry, right from the educational to the corporate. It enables the researcher to identify the potential theory from the data which has been derived. The successful implementation of the Grounded theory research requires critical thinking skills.
Grounded theory is an important research theory in the industry due to its unique procedures, theoretical and precise sampling, and coding system, which is also flexible. The theory provides systematic guidelines for acquiring the qualitative research and enables the researcher by offering them strategies that help them in the inquiry phase. Furthermore, the Grounded Theory Research also establishes and interconnects the data and prepares the researcher to analyze it. Once this is done, the qualitative data is analyzed, and the qualitative research is used as a scientific basis for further inquiry. Among all the research theories, grounded theory has gained popularity among professors and eminent scholars.
The grounded theory doesn’t require the support of an external theory to derive the results. Grounded Theory Research is also used to study the existing theories by focusing on the results derived in the past. The concept of grounded theory can also be applied to explore the loopholes found in previous research. The Grounded theory research provides autonomy to the researcher to define, distinguish, and build the theories from the data which have been derived.
Grounded theory is a research method that comprises analyzing the data which has been stored throughout the generations. The process involves systematically arranging the data and then analyzing it to derive the desired results. The roots of the Grounded theory can be traced back to California, where Glaser and Strauss introduced the theory. It was initially developed to understand the social relationship and behavior of groups.
Constant comparative analysis
The Grounded theory was studied by questioning its application with the scientific method of verifying the results through careful observation. The constant research on the Grounded Theory led Glaser and Strauss to develop the constant comparative method. This method was introduced to analyze the data continuously by organizing it in a synchronized manner. Furthermore, the theory proposed that the data was used inductively when compared to the deductive method.
The Grounded theory presents a strong point that the quantitative methodology would only be used for a certain period and is an unbiased way of acquiring results. Glaser and Strauss also stated that the qualitative analysis lacked the detailing and accuracy which were present in the quantitative analysis under the comparative study.
In simple words, the Grounded theory represents the inquiry, and the product of the inquiry is also submitted. Thus, the Grounded theory can also be described as a collection of integrated conceptual hypothesis which is used to produce the inductive theory concerning a specific area.
Theoretical sampling
The theory involves the complex application of processes and well-defined processes. The Grounded theory is based on collecting samples from the concurrent data generation, data analysis by tracking the coding, and constantly comparing to form an analysis. The idea of theoretical sampling is used till a theoretical solution is received. The iterative system can unfold the actions and create situations to make the interaction better by utilizing the theoretical data. Here the process is combined dynamic and iterative, and it is non-one-directional.
Grounded theory research involves critical thinking skills. Here, the importance of critical thinking skills can be observed as it increases the problem-solving ability, builds logical investigation, and helps in utilizing the methods. The concept of critical thinking was clearly illustrated by Watson-Glatser, who briefly explained the skills. The concept of applying the theory happens when the researcher has the talent to combine the skills, attitude, and knowledge.
Involvement of Theoretical sampling
Glaser and Strauss initially introduced the term theoretical sampling. They described the process of generating the theory from the data which has been collected through sampling. Once the theory has presented results, it depends upon the researcher to move further and explore other results of the theory. The theory might produce results or present the researcher with meticulous data that is again to be analyzed through the grounded research theory. This is done until a proper and genuine solution is not obtained.
Theoretical saturation
Under the theoretical saturation, the researcher reached a point of saturation wherein there is no data to be studied further. The result obtained is used for future research purposes. It can also be determined that no new concepts can be derived from the data. However, the data can again be studied under different conditions, and various theories can be proposed.
Theoretical sensitivity
The theory of sensitivity under the Grounded theory studies the interaction of the data and is used to explore the opposing theories, and justification is done in the end. Theoretical sensitivity is a crucial part of the grounded theory research as it provides an insight to the researcher about the possibility of finding the evidence. In simple words, the theoretical sensitivity provides a clue to the result and allows the researcher to prove the findings.
 Benefits of Critical thinking skills in Grounded theory research
- Â Â Enables the researcher to distinguish between reliable and non-reliable information to derive justification
- Â Â The researcher should have the ability to recognize the assumption of the statement
- Â Â The researcher must have the skill to determine if the information provided would be helpful in deriving a conclusion
- Â Â Evaluating the arguments made by the researchers to pick the reliable data.
The grounded theory requires thorough critical thinking skills backed by logical reasoning. It is essential to evaluate the information and then analyze the facts to construct assumptions. Grounded Theory Research requires careful analysis and critical thinking to understand the data from multi-dimensional perspectives. This is done by separating the facts from other people’s theories. Critical thinking involves finding the right information which is needed to solve the problems and make accurate decisions.
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