The term was developed by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss to describe an inductive method of theory construction wherein researchers collect and analyze data simultaneously.

Grounded theory.

Explanation:

As the exercise explains, this term was developed by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss to describe an inductive method of theory construction wherein researchers collect and analyze data simultaneously. The GT (grounded theory) bases it's data collection in a systematic methodology involving the methodical gathering and analysis of data; different from other scientifical methods as it is based in the inductive reasoning and observation.

d. i assume the underlined word is "role." reformat if it isn't.

explanation:

role is closest to part because when replacing words, "playing a vital decision," "playing a vital activity," and "playing a vital dollar" don't make logical sense. the only meaningful choice is "playing a vital part."

this fits one of merriam-webster's definitions of role: "a function or part performed especially in a particular operation or process."

answer; (place);