What cycle describes the relationship between theory and data as practiced by Franchesca in her study?

The theory-data cycle is a critical concept in research methodology that illustrates how theoretical frameworks and data collection interact and inform one another. In this cycle, researchers begin with a theory that offers predictions about behavior or phenomena. They then collect data to test these predictions.

When the results of the data collection provide support for the theory, it strengthens the existing theory and may lead to further research questions. If the data do not support the theory, it can prompt revisions or new hypotheses, ultimately leading to adjustments in the theoretical framework. This iterative process is essential in the scientific method, ensuring that research findings contribute to the evolution of theories in a field.

By recognizing Franchesca's study as following the theory-data cycle, it highlights the reciprocal relationship between the empirical data she gathered and the theoretical groundwork she was building upon or testing. This emphasizes the dynamic nature of research, where theories are continually refined based on empirical evidence.