How can a literature review help in developing a theoretical framework and hypotheses in inductive research?

Is it true that in inductive research, a literature review will help the researcher to develop a theoretical framework and hypotheses?

True, in inductive research, a literature review helps the researcher develop a theoretical framework and hypotheses.

Answer:

Yes, it is true that in inductive research, a literature review plays a crucial role in helping the researcher develop a theoretical framework and hypotheses. In inductive research, the goal is to generate new theories and hypotheses based on specific observations or data analysis.

Inductive research involves moving from specific observations to broader generalizations and theories. A literature review is essential in this process as it provides the researcher with a comprehensive understanding of existing knowledge and theories related to the research topic.

By conducting a literature review, the researcher can identify gaps, inconsistencies, and areas where further exploration is needed. This information is crucial in developing a theoretical framework, which serves as a conceptual lens through which the research findings will be interpreted.

The literature review helps in the identification of key variables, concepts, and relationships that will form the basis of the theoretical framework. Additionally, it allows the researcher to examine different perspectives, theories, and empirical evidence that can guide the formulation of hypotheses.

By understanding the existing knowledge, the researcher can build on previous findings and propose novel hypotheses that contribute to the advancement of the field. Overall, a literature review is a vital step in the research process, especially in inductive research where the aim is to generate new theories and hypotheses.