Research 1
1. Compare the elements of theory-building techniques and theory-testing techniques.
The elements of theory building techniques are design science and grounded theory while in the theory testing techniques are action research and systems development.
According to the DAGS model, theory development is derived from either a design science approach or a grounded theory approach. System development and action research are ways of testing and refining theories. Thus, while there can be some overlap among these elements of the model, there are distinguishing features of each that allow them to stand as independent entities in the framework.
Design science is described in terms of its function to solve problems by introducing into the environment new artifacts, which will induce their spontaneous employment by humans and thus, cause humans to abandon their previous problem producing behaviors and devices.
Grounded theory’s objective is the discovery of a theoretically comprehensive explanation about phenomena, using techniques and analytical procedures that enable investigations to develop a theory that is significant, generalizable, reproducible and rigorous. The grounded theory methodology is comprised of flexible strategies that guide qualitative data collection and the methodology’s strength lies in its ability to convey: (a) the steps for handling data collection and analysis; (b) a way of correcting errors, omissions and of refining analytic ideas; (c) tools for studying basic social and social psychological process in their natural settings; and (d) strategies for creating middle-range theories.
Action research attempts to link theory and practice, thinking and doing, achieving both practical and research objectives. By emphasizing collaboration between researchers and practitioners, action research seems to represent an ideal research method for information systems especially because of its ability to address complex real-life