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Inductive reasoning and deductive reasoning are both different approaches to research. While the former approach focuses on developing a theory, the latter tests an existing theory. Even though both these approaches differ in their application, they are often used as a combined approach in one large study. In this article, we’ll gauge the difference between inductive reasoning and deductive reasoning and compare their strengths & limitations. Let’s get started. Logic can be branched out into two broad methods of reasoning, namely inductive and deductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning definitionInductive reasoning is a logical thinking process in which specific observations that are believed to be true are combined to draw a conclusion to create broader generalizations and theories. Deductive reasoning definitionDeductive reasoning, on the other hand, works in the opposite direction of inductive reasoning. It is a logical thinking process that uses the top-down approach to go from the more general to the more specific. It involves the usage of general assumptions and logical premises to arrive at a logical conclusion. To understand inductive and deductive reasoning better, let’s go over the key differences. Inductive vs. deductive reasoning: Characteristics
Inductive vs. Deductive Reasoning: ExamplesExample of Inductive ReasoningObservation: Pet dogs in my neighborhood are friendly. Observe a pattern: All observed dogs are friendly. Theory: All dogs are friendly. Example of Deductive ReasoningTheory: All dogs are friendly. Hypothesis: All pet dogs in my neighborhood are friendly. Test hypothesis: Observe all dogs in the neighborhood. Conclusion: 7 out of 23 dogs in the neighborhood were not friendly= Reject the hypothesis Inductive vs. Deductive Reasoning: UsageWhen it comes to how we use inductive and deductive reasoning, the easy way to remember is that inductive reasoning is fast and easy to use, so we use it daily in our life. However, deductive reasoning is difficult to use in daily life since we need facts to prove the argument. Usage of Inductive ReasoningWe use inductive reasoning for everyday use, such as:
Usage of Deductive ReasoningDeductive reasoning is often used to solve a problem or make decisions.
Inductive Reasoning Approach in ResearchInductive reasoning is a logical thinking process that integrates observations with experiential information to draw a conclusion. You are employing the use of inductive reasoning every time you look at a set of data and then form general conclusions on knowledge from past experiences. Inductive research is usually used when there is a lack of existing literature on a topic. This is because there is no existing theory that can be tested on the concept. The inductive training approach can be categorized into the following three stages:
To understand this approach better, let’s take a look at the following example:
Supercharge your survey insights with Voxco Strengths and Limitations of Inductive ReasoningLet’s evaluate inductive reasoning by taking a look at its strengths and weaknesses: Strengths of Inductive ReasoningRange of probabilities One of the most prominent advantages of inductive reasoning is that it allows you to work with a range of probabilities, expanding your perception and knowledge base despite the lack of literature available. Encourages exploration Inductive training begins with an observation and then moves on to exploration to test the judgment made. Weaknesses of Inductive ReasoningLimited scope A drawback of inductive reasoning is that inferences are made from specific situations that may not have significance in the real world. Explore all the survey question types possible on VoxcoDeductive Reasoning Approach in ResearchWhen employing deductive reasoning in research, you begin with a theory. This theory is then narrowed down into more specific hypotheses that can be tested. These are further narrowed down into observations that allow us to test the hypothesis to confirm whether the data supports or rejects the hypothesis. The deductive training approach can therefore be categorized into the following four stages:
To understand this approach better, let’s take a look at the following example:
Strengths and Limitations of Deductive ReasoningLet’s evaluate deductive reasoning by taking a look at its strengths and weaknesses: Strengths of Deductive ReasoningHelps substantiate decisions Deductive reasoning can be used to effectively substantiate decisions such as those related to work. Also, if the decision doesn’t produce the desired results, you can still explain why you made the decision by providing logical and objective explanations. Reliable when the original premise is true Another advantage of deductive reasoning is that your conclusion is almost guaranteed to be true if all the original premises are true in all situations and if the reasoning applied is correct. Weaknesses of Deductive ReasoningRelies on initial premises being correct Deductive reasoning heavily relies on the initial premises being correct. The final argument is invalid if even one premise is found to be incorrect. Looking for the best research tools? FAQsDeductive reasoning, also called the top-down approach, is a process of backing up a generalized statement with logical facts. Inductive reasoning, also called the bottom up approach, is the process of making a generalized argument based on a specific observation. A deductive argument is the presentation of a statement assumed to be true. In a deductive argument, the premises provide strong support to the conclusion of the reasoning. If the premises in a deductive argument is true, the conclusion can never be false. Deductive VS inductive reasoning
SELF-SERVICE ANALYTICSMarch 3, 2022 No Comments SELF-SERVICE ANALYTICS The 2022 Buyer’s Guide to Customer Experience Software To help you sort through thousands of CX software, we have compiled this buyer’s guide Read More » Which approach to research tests a hypothesis derived from an existing theory?Deductive research approach is most associated with scientific investigation. The researcher studies what others have done, reads existing theories of whatever phenomenon they are studying, and then tests hypotheses that emerge from those theories.
What is it called when a researcher begins with the data and forms theory based on this data?Grounded theory methodology is a research methodology with a central purpose to study the experience of participants in order to develop a theory grounded in the data gathered from participants.
What is inductive and deductive research?The main difference between inductive and deductive reasoning is that inductive reasoning aims at developing a theory while deductive reasoning aims at testing an existing theory. Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to broad generalisations, and deductive reasoning the other way around.
What is the meaning of inductive research?Inductive research “involves the search for pattern from observation and the development of explanations – theories – for those patterns through series of hypotheses”[2].
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