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Consider a research project you are conducting or are interested in conducting. How would you incorporate theory into your research? Remember the use of theory is different for qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches.

When considering the approach towards a research paper, related to a quantitative method, one of the main things to consider is the relationship between multiple variables related to the subject at hand. Clearly identifying the theory, the beginning of the research is also an important element of the quantitative approach. "Understanding the use of theory in quantitatry esearch requires defining theory, assessing the types of variables and their measurement, introducing the concept of causality, viewing forms of stating theories, placing theory in a proposal or study, and writing a theory passage" $($Creswell & Creswell, $2023,$ pg$\mathrm{.}55).$ The aforementioned passage lays the blueprint or a step by step to follow, in relation to a quantitative research approach.

While reading the section on the Variables in Quantitative Research, one of the most clear points made, was that the theories presented explain the relationship among the different variables to consider. For example, let's say a researcher wanted to correlate the relationship between injuries at a workplace and the type of equipment used during the lifespan of an employee. Different variables would have to be considered when analyzing the data collected. Independent variables, predictor variables, and dependent variables would most likely have to be researched in order to attain the most accurate picture.

To me an interesting research to conduct would be the types of injuries reported by police officers during the course of their careers, specifically related to back pain and the type of equipment those officers used in their careers. A theory could be made that a specific type of equipment $($i$.$e$,$ duty belt, carrier, vehicle, etc.$)$ over a prolonged period of time, contributed to the chronic back pain, some officers report. Multiple variables would also have to be considered while conducting a quantitative research approach.

References:

Creswell, J$.$ & Cresweil, D$.(2023).$ Research Design Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Method Approaches $(6$th ed$).$ Sage Publications