ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THEORY

ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THEORYANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THEORYIn evaluating a theory, we must consider its degree of usefulness to guide practice, research, education and administration. Evaluation provides new insight into relationships among concepts and their links to each other. This allow the researcher to know the theorys strength and weakness.In evaluating a theory, we must first provide a description of it. This is done be reviewing the entire work while focusing in its historical aspect. After which, the researcher systematically and objectively examines the context, structure and its function. This step is called theory analysis. ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THEORYFinally, a critical reflection is done by ascertaining how well a theory serves the professions progress. This also involves determining whether the theory is contributing to the knowledge base of nursing.Scope of Analysis and EvaluationBy Fawcett, 1989AnalysisEvaluationHistorical evolution of the theoryApproach to model developmentContentSource of concernExplicitness of assumptionDegree of comprehensivenessLogical congruenceAbility of the model to test and generate hypothesisContribution of the model to nursing knowledge

ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THEORYFive criteria in evaluating a theoretical work according to Chinn and Kramer (1991):ClaritySimplicityGeneralityEmpirical precisionDerivable consequences

ClarityConsistency, semantics and structureIdentify major concepts and sub-conceptsWord defined operationallyDiagrams is clear and consistentLogical sequenceAssumption is consistent with defined goals Simplicity Adequately comprehensive at a level of abstractionOffers greatest sense of understanding (Raynolds)Parsimony (elegant in simplicity although extensive in content).

GeneralityThe broader scope of the theory, the greater its significance.

Empirical PrecisionThe degree in which the defined concepts are observable in actual setting.Derivable ConsequencesNursing theory should lead itself to research testing which would result to additional knowledge that would guide practice.Nursing theory should give direction to research and practice, create new ideas, and ought to distinguish the focus of nursing to other professions.Theory must develop and guide practice.Theories should reveal what knowledge should nurses acquire and pursue.THEORY ANALYSISCRITERIAQUESTIONS TO BE ASKEDClarityIs the theory clearly stated?How clear is the theory?Is it easily understood?SimplicityHow simple is the theory?GeneralityHow general is the theory?How broad is the scope of the theory?Empirical PrecisionIs the theory testable?How accessible is the theory?Derivable ConsequencesHow important is the theory?Does the theory have a significant contribution to nursing knowledge?