Refined Mind Map + Theory Parallel
Besides the mind map itself, the red lining shows parallels between theories and the question being asked. Here, I focused on the idea of "shifting". Looking for similarities where I can use specific framework in the different theories to help back my research. So far, I am enjoying this exercise, and maybe even use more colors to help identify other parallels and the similarities between the subcategory of certain findings.
The question at the top of the page is the finalized question I am going to run with. The three theories below are the main three I will use, although the third is still up in the air in case there is a better theory out there that can support my question in a more cohesive way. But I think looking at the practicality of the church over the specified amount of time would be a very good way to get a retrospect in the conditions of the church that have always stayed the same.
Hi Ryan, Thank you for sharing your theory map. This is a solid start, and I can see the effort you’ve put into organizing your thinking and drawing connections across ideas.
ReplyDeleteYour research question is clear and focused, and the three frameworks you’ve selected (architectural expression, affordance theory, and functionalism) are all relevant to the direction you’re taking.
At this stage, I’d like to see you push this further in a few key ways:
1. Right now, the connections between your theories and your research question are somewhat implied rather than clearly articulated. Try to be more explicit about what each theory is helping you do in your study. For example, what aspect of “architectural expression” or “technological change” does each theory help you analyze?
2. The idea of “shifting” is central to your question and shows up in your map, but it still needs to be more clearly defined, or what researchers call "operationalized". What specifically is shifting (form, materials, spatial organization, symbolism, etc.) and how will you recognize or document that change?
3. Some of your notes begin to point toward potential evidence (e.g., lighting, zones, denominational differences), which is great. Now try to develop this further. What kinds of cases or examples will you use to actually trace these changes from 2015–2025?
Overall, this is a good foundation. The next step is to tighten the connections, clarify your key terms, and begin identifying concrete evidence that will allow you to answer your question in a rigorous way.