Social Media Research

01 Theory


Question

Explain what Theoretical Sensitivity means in the context of Grounded Theory!


Answer

Theoretical sensitivity develops as researchers get increasingly familiar with the data they analyse.

Researcher should not try to fit data to previously found categories and use categories and codes that emerge during analysis.

Past research should only be used to inform decisions. Concept of "Open mind but not empty head".




Comments

In which direction is theoretical sensitivity directed? Is a high sensitivity (high awareness) or a low sensitivity (low prior knowledge) required?