According to one paradigm, the sequence Theory - Generation of hypotheses - Data collection - Data analysis and results - Hypotheses confirmed or rejected - Revision of theory is based on which of the following?

Moving from theory to hypotheses, then data, results and revision of theory follows the deductive approach.

The deductive approach starts with existing theory and tests derived hypotheses against data.

The inductive approach runs the other way, building theory upward from collected observations.

The qualitative approach usually favours induction and rich meaning over hypothesis testing.

The interpretative approach seeks the subjective meanings actors give, not a theory-testing sequence.

This theory-first cycle typifies quantitative, positivist research designs.