Which concept focuses on ensuring the research question is grounded in existing theory and literature?

Which concept focuses on ensuring the research question is grounded in existing theory and literature?

• A. Scientific relevance
• B. Feasibility
• C. Variable
• D. Deductive reasoning

Answer: (A)

Scientific relevance is about making sure the research question is anchored in existing theory and literature so it addresses a real gap or adds meaningful understanding to what’s already known. By tying the question to established theories and prior findings, the study has a clear place in the scholarly conversation and can be interpreted in light of what theory predicts and what prior studies have shown. This grounding helps justify why the question matters and what new or clarified knowledge it will contribute to the field. Feasibility focuses on practicality—whether the study can actually be done with available time, resources, and access. A question could be perfectly feasible but not well connected to existing theory, which would weaken its scholarly impact. A variable is a measurable element in a study, important for design and analysis but not about aligning the question with the literature. Deductive reasoning is a method of deriving hypotheses from theory; while it relies on theory, the phrase about grounding in literature is specifically captured by scientific relevance.

Scientific relevance is about making sure the research question is anchored in existing theory and literature so it addresses a real gap or adds meaningful understanding to what’s already known. By tying the question to established theories and prior findings, the study has a clear place in the scholarly conversation and can be interpreted in light of what theory predicts and what prior studies have shown. This grounding helps justify why the question matters and what new or clarified knowledge it will contribute to the field.

Feasibility focuses on practicality—whether the study can actually be done with available time, resources, and access. A question could be perfectly feasible but not well connected to existing theory, which would weaken its scholarly impact. A variable is a measurable element in a study, important for design and analysis but not about aligning the question with the literature. Deductive reasoning is a method of deriving hypotheses from theory; while it relies on theory, the phrase about grounding in literature is specifically captured by scientific relevance.