Conclusion: Linking theory, research and practice in open and distance education

Abstract

Theory and research are in a dialectic and transactional relationship whereby theory determines what questions are to be asked in research, what data to be collected and what to do with it once collected, and research findings then confirm or challenge accepted theories as argued in Brown (1977) and Fawcett and Downs (1986). For researchers, theory is an invaluable tool to identify and solve a good research problem and contribute to theory building and improvement. As a conclusion of this book, this chapter proposes a framework which may help ODE researchers to choose an appropriate theory or theories best suited to their different research situations and ends by listing three key considerations for future ODE researchers and practitioners.