The Definition of Theory, Theoretical Framework, and Conceptual Framework in Research

The Definition of Theory, Theoretical Framework,

and Conceptual Framework in Research

Thirawit Praimahaniyom (July 2023, 19)

      The terms theory, theoretical framework, and conceptual framework are often used interchangeably in research, but they have distinct meanings and functions. Understanding the differences between these terms is essential for researchers to develop a clear and well-defined study. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between theory, theoretical framework, and conceptual framework and their roles in research.

Theory

     A theory is a way to explain and make sense of the world around us. It is a set of ideas or principles that help us understand how things are related to each other. Theories can be used to describe phenomena, explain why things happen, or predict what might happen in the future.

     There are different types of theories, each with its own purpose. Descriptive theories aim to provide an accurate account of a particular phenomenon or behavior. They describe what happens, but do not necessarily explain why. In contrast, explanatory theories try to identify the underlying causes of a phenomenon. They aim to explain why things happen the way they do. Predictive theories use existing knowledge to make predictions about what might happen in the future. They are often based on statistical models or other quantitative methods.

     Theories can be developed from a variety of sources, including empirical research, observation, and personal experience. Some theories are based on a lot of research and evidence, while others are based on limited data or anecdotal evidence.

     Theories can also vary in their scope. Some theories focus on individual behavior or cognition, while others address larger social or cultural patterns. For example, a theory of personality might focus on individual differences in behavior and thought, while a theory of social change might address broader trends in society as a whole.

    Finally, it is worth noting that there can be multiple theories about the same phenomenon. Researchers must carefully evaluate the available evidence and choose the theory that best fits their research question and goals.

 
Theoretical framework

     A theoretical framework is a critical component of any research study. It is a set of interconnected ideas, concepts, and principles that guide the research process. The theoretical framework is developed by the researcher to support their study and must define concepts and theories, logically connect them, and relate them to the study being carried out.

     The theoretical framework serves several important purposes. First, it helps the researcher to identify gaps in the existing literature and develop research questions that address these gaps. By providing a clear rationale for the study, it helps to ensure that the research is relevant and meaningful.

     Second, the theoretical framework guides the research design. It helps the researcher to determine which variables to measure, how to measure them, and how to analyze the data. By providing a clear structure for the study, it ensures that the research is rigorous and valid.

     Finally, the theoretical framework helps the researcher to interpret their findings and draw conclusions. By providing a theoretical basis for the study, it allows the researcher to place their findings in context and make sense of them.

     Theoretical frameworks are developed from one or more theories. Theories provide a general explanation for a phenomenon, while theoretical frameworks provide a specific application of those theories to a particular research question. Theoretical frameworks can be built from existing theories or can be developed through a process of inductive reasoning, where the researcher identifies patterns in their data and develops a theory based on those patterns.

Overall, the theoretical framework is an essential component of any research study. It provides a clear rationale for the study, guides the research design, and helps the researcher to interpret their findings. By developing a strong theoretical framework, researchers can ensure that their research is relevant, rigorous, and meaningful.

 A conceptual framework

     The conceptual framework is an essential component of any research study. It is a visual or written representation of the researcher's ideas about the study. The conceptual framework is like a map that explains why a study is done, what we already know, what we still need to learn, and how we are going to do the study. A conceptual framework serves as the reasoning or "justification" for conducting a particular research study. It helps the researcher to identify the key concepts and variables that will be studied and to specify how these concepts are related to each other.

     The conceptual framework has several important functions. First, it helps to establish the research question and hypothesis. By identifying the key concepts and variables, it ensures that the research question is clear and well-defined.

     Second, the conceptual framework guides the research design. By specifying how the concepts are related to each other, it helps to determine which variables will be measured, how they will be measured, and how they will be analyzed.

     Third, the conceptual framework helps to ensure that the research is relevant and meaningful. By identifying what we already know and what we still need to learn, it ensures that the research is building on existing knowledge and contributing new insights or knowledge to the subject area.

      Finally, the conceptual framework helps to interpret the research findings. By providing a clear theoretical basis for the study, it allows the researcher to place their findings in context and make sense of them.

      Overall, the conceptual framework is an essential component of any research study. It provides a clear rationale for the study, guides the research design, and helps to ensure that the research is relevant and meaningful. By developing a strong conceptual framework, researchers can ensure that their research is rigorous, valid, and contributes new insights or knowledge to the subject area.

In conclusion, theory, theoretical framework, and conceptual framework are essential components of any research study. While they share some similarities, they have distinct meanings and functions. Theory provides a general explanation for a phenomenon, while theoretical and conceptual frameworks provide specific applications of those theories to a particular research question. Developing a clear and well-defined theoretical and conceptual framework is critical for ensuring that research is relevant, rigorous, and meaningful.

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Varpio, L.; Paradis, E.; Uijtdehaage, S.; and Young, M. (2020). The Distinctions Between Theory, Theoretical Framework, and Conceptual Framework. Academic Medicine 95(7), 989-994, July 2020. | DOI: 10.1097/ACM.00000000000