ABSTRACT
The theoretical approach is a technique for gathering data through conceptual analysis, theoretical examination, or other similar activities. Some theoretical approach studies aim to develop a model, framework, or theory in a respective domain, while others intend to address their research questions by performing theoretical or conceptual analysis of collected data. This chapter traces the origins and traditions of theoretical approach research which encompass grounded theory, phenomenology, and hermeneutics. Other topics considered in this chapter involve constructionism, data saturation, as well as dos and don'ts in theoretical approach research. The chapter also points out that each study using the theoretical approach develops its own research procedure due to the distinctive features of this method. As data collection in theoretical approach research cannot be examined and discussed independently of data analysis, the two case studies for this chapter cover both research reports in their entirety, which differs from the case studies done in other chapters of this book that mainly focus on data collection.
