THEORY ELABORATION AND THEORETICAL QUESTION FRAMING IN QUALITATIVE THESES AND DISSERTATIONS: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF SELECTED LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE (LIS) POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH (2015-2024) AT AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA

Abstract

This study examined the application of theory in postgraduate Library and Information Science (LIS) research at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Drawing on a qualitative content analysis of selected theses and dissertations from the university’s repository, the analysis focused on how theoretical frameworks were employed, contextualized, and, in some cases, refined; and how inductive research questions are framed. The findings show that while most studies applied established theories, only a limited number adapted or extended them in line with local contexts. For example, the Perceived Attributes of Innovation Theory was narrowed to emphasize relative advantage and trialability, while Information Grounds Theory was expanded to account for community-based information practices in Samaru. The study also identified two distinct approaches to framing research questions: some engaged entire theoretical models, while others focused selectively on particular constructs. These patterns highlight both the strengths and gaps in postgraduate engagement with theory. The study recommends more structured training in theory use, clearer alignment between research questions and theoretical scope, and explicit reporting of theoretical contributions to enhance the visibility and impact of LIS scholarship from African universities.