Framework

A framework is an abstract logical structure of meaning that guides the development of a study enabling a researcher to link their findings to a body of knowledge. A theoretical framework concerns a framework of study that is based on a theory. A conceptual framework is a term used in a study that has its roots in a specified conceptual model.

A conceptual framework requires that a researcher uses concepts from the available literature to establish evidence to support the need for a certain research question. If these links have already been established through valid research, this ready-made theoretical framework can be used as a map to help guide other scientists with their own research questions.

Theoretical frameworks provide a perspective through which it is possible to examine a topic. There are no right or wrong theoretical frameworks, since a topic can be looked at from multiple perspectives. Frameworks are there to guide research, determine which things should be measured, and define what kinds of statistical relationships one should be alert for.

Theoretical frameworks are critical in deductive, theory-testing types of study. They consist of interrelated concepts, together with their definitions, along with existing theories that are used for a particular study. Frameworks need to express an understanding of the theories and topics relevant to the topic of research and relate them to broader fields of knowledge.

Frameworks are not off the peg or readily available in the literature, since they must be applied to the case at hand.

A theoretical framework strengthens a research study in the following ways:

• It provides an explicit statement of theoretical assumptions which permit the reader to critically evaluate them.
• It connects the researcher to the existing knowledge and guides them with a relevant theory. This provides a basis for the hypothesis and choice of research methods.
• It articulates the theoretical assumptions of research study, forcing researchers to address why and how questions. Theoretical frameworks allow for us to move from simply describing [Page 295]observed situations or phenomena to generalizing various aspects of a phenomenon or occurrence.
• Having a structure helps to apply limits to those generalizations. A theoretical framework identifies the key variables that influence a phenomenon, encouraging examination of how those variables might differ and under what circumstances.
• Frameworks are useful organizing devices in empirical research. A conceptual framework can be applied to deductive, empirical research at micro- or individual-level study.