Consider the following: existing theories are used only as a point of departure for the analysis; theories are further developed by forming new concepts and relations whose contents are studied and illustrated; and the practical application of theory is illustrated by cases. Which type of research is being referred to?

Qualitative research uses existing theory only as a point of departure and develops it through new concepts illustrated by cases.

Quantitative research tests fixed hypotheses with numerical data rather than building concepts inductively.

Mixed research would combine both paradigms and does not match this purely interpretive description.

Experimental research manipulates variables under control and does not centre on concept development from cases.

Qualitative work is inductive, moving from rich case material toward emerging theory.

Grounded theory is a classic approach that builds theory directly from qualitative data.