Theory can be enacted with descriptive research in a number of ways. One way is to use theory to develop a research framework. This framework will specify the concepts and variables that will be studied in the research, as well as the relationships between these concepts and variables. The framework will then be used to design the research study, including the selection of participants, the methods of data collection, and the techniques for data analysis.
Another way to enact theory with descriptive research is to use theory to interpret the results of the research study. This can be done by comparing the findings of the study to the predictions made by the theory. If the findings support the predictions, then this provides evidence that the theory is correct. If the findings do not support the predictions, then this may lead to a revision of the theory.
Finally, descriptive research can also be used to generate new theory. This can be done by identifying new patterns and relationships in the data, and then developing new theories to explain these patterns and relationships.
In summary, theory can be enacted with descriptive research in a number of ways. This can include using theory to develop a research framework, to interpret the results of a research study, and to generate new theory. By using theory in descriptive research, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the topics they are studying, and can develop new knowledge that can be used to improve practice.