From Theory to Action: Grounded Research for Real-World Change
"Bridging the gap between transformative science and practical application for a more sustainable future."
Transformative science (TS) has become a frequent topic but a comparative analysis of TS as discussed versus TS in practice is missing. The theoretical discussion and the practical application of transformative research (TR) seemingly progress at different rates. The risk is premature structuring and inflated expectations for innovative experiments where science meets society.
Science faces a dual transformation challenge. It must change externally (society) and internally (scientific system). This can overwhelm scientific work. This article asks about the exact social practice of TR beyond the mainly programmatic debate and its legitimacy as a distinct research practice compared to transdisciplinary research (TD).
Based on innovation theory, we argue for TD as an innovation in the scientific system. Its commitment to social change should be supported by empirically grounded (scientific) theoretical foundations (compare Ukowitz 2014, Krohn et al. 2017, Zscheischler et al. 2017).
Why Grounded Theory Matters for Transformative Research
The current discourse is more programmatic than empirically grounded or scientifically underpinned. TS is primarily formulated as a demand on scientists and the scientific system at the discourse level, not empirically or analytically examined as lived research practice. The chronology is a core issue: research that transforms is mainly conceived from the goal. Whether transformation—in society or science—has occurred can only be judged retrospectively. Even then, it is hard to tell if research caused transformation. So, the discussion is theoretical because TS has not proven its transformative impact and is only transformation-oriented.
- Clarify Social Practices: Define the specific social practices that characterize transformative research, distinguishing it from other forms of research.
- Bridge Theory and Practice: Systematically link theoretical frameworks with practical applications to ensure research efforts are grounded and effective.
- Promote Empirical Development: Encourage research designs that allow for empirical observation and analysis of transformative processes as they unfold.
Toward Grounded Theory in Transformative Research
To move from programmatics to practice and decelerate programmatic discourse for evolutionary structuring through practice, we advocate for developing a Grounded Theory (GT) of transformation-oriented science. The programmatic-normative demands and transformation expectations should be hypotheses. The GT research logic (Strauss and Corbin 1990) should be an iterative-circular process between empirical fieldwork, reflection, and concept formation for an upward spiral of knowledge toward theoretical saturation. Empirical theory development should occur within moderated, transdisciplinary networks and across research projects. Constant comparison of empirical cases, theoretical categories/concepts, and systematic review of new knowledge about case/material selection are core.