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What Is a Conceptual Framework? | Tips & Examples

What Is a Conceptual Framework? | Tips & Examples

Published on August 2, 2022 by Bas Swaen and Tegan George. Revised on March 18, 2024.

A conceptual framework illustrates the expected relationship between your variables. It defines the relevant objectives for your research process and maps out how they come together to draw coherent conclusions.

Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to help you construct your own conceptual framework.

Developing a conceptual framework in research, step 1: choose your research question, step 2: select your independent and dependent variables, step 3: visualize your cause-and-effect relationship, step 4: identify other influencing variables, frequently asked questions about conceptual models.

A conceptual framework is a representation of the relationship you expect to see between your variables, or the characteristics or properties that you want to study.

Conceptual frameworks can be written or visual and are generally developed based on a literature review of existing studies about your topic.

Your research question guides your work by determining exactly what you want to find out, giving your research process a clear focus.

However, before you start collecting your data, consider constructing a conceptual framework. This will help you map out which variables you will measure and how you expect them to relate to one another.

In order to move forward with your research question and test a cause-and-effect relationship, you must first identify at least two key variables: your independent and dependent variables .

The expected cause, “hours of study,” is the independent variable (the predictor, or explanatory variable)
The expected effect, “exam score,” is the dependent variable (the response, or outcome variable).

Note that causal relationships often involve several independent variables that affect the dependent variable. For the purpose of this example, we’ll work with just one independent variable (“hours of study”).

Now that you’ve figured out your research question and variables, the first step in designing your conceptual framework is visualizing your expected cause-and-effect relationship.

We demonstrate this using basic design components of boxes and arrows. Here, each variable appears in a box. To indicate a causal relationship, each arrow should start from the independent variable (the cause) and point to the dependent variable (the effect).

Sample-conceptual-framework-using-an-independent-variable-and-a-dependent-variable

It’s crucial to identify other variables that can influence the relationship between your independent and dependent variables early in your research process.

Some common variables to include are moderating, mediating, and control variables.

Moderating variables

Moderating variable (or moderators) alter the effect that an independent variable has on a dependent variable. In other words, moderators change the “effect” component of the cause-and-effect relationship.

Let’s add the moderator “IQ.” Here, a student’s IQ level can change the effect that the variable “hours of study” has on the exam score. The higher the IQ, the fewer hours of study are needed to do well on the exam.

Sample-conceptual-framework-with-a-moderator-variable

Let’s take a look at how this might work. The graph below shows how the number of hours spent studying affects exam score. As expected, the more hours you study, the better your results. Here, a student who studies for 20 hours will get a perfect score.

But the graph looks different when we add our “IQ” moderator of 120. A student with this IQ will achieve a perfect score after just 15 hours of study.

Below, the value of the “IQ” moderator has been increased to 150. A student with this IQ will only need to invest five hours of study in order to get a perfect score.

Here, we see that a moderating variable does indeed change the cause-and-effect relationship between two variables.

Mediating variables

Now we’ll expand the framework by adding a mediating variable . Mediating variables link the independent and dependent variables, allowing the relationship between them to be better explained.

Here’s how the conceptual framework might look if a mediator variable were involved:

In this case, the mediator helps explain why studying more hours leads to a higher exam score. The more hours a student studies, the more practice problems they will complete; the more practice problems completed, the higher the student’s exam score will be.

Moderator vs. mediator

It’s important not to confuse moderating and mediating variables. To remember the difference, you can think of them in relation to the independent variable:

A moderating variable is not affected by the independent variable, even though it affects the dependent variable. For example, no matter how many hours you study (the independent variable), your IQ will not get higher.
A mediating variable is affected by the independent variable. In turn, it also affects the dependent variable. Therefore, it links the two variables and helps explain the relationship between them.

Control variables

Lastly, control variables must also be taken into account. These are variables that are held constant so that they don’t interfere with the results. Even though you aren’t interested in measuring them for your study, it’s crucial to be aware of as many of them as you can be.

A mediator variable explains the process through which two variables are related, while a moderator variable affects the strength and direction of that relationship.

A confounding variable is closely related to both the independent and dependent variables in a study. An independent variable represents the supposed cause , while the dependent variable is the supposed effect . A confounding variable is a third variable that influences both the independent and dependent variables.

Failing to account for confounding variables can cause you to wrongly estimate the relationship between your independent and dependent variables.

Yes, but including more than one of either type requires multiple research questions .

For example, if you are interested in the effect of a diet on health, you can use multiple measures of health: blood sugar, blood pressure, weight, pulse, and many more. Each of these is its own dependent variable with its own research question.

You could also choose to look at the effect of exercise levels as well as diet, or even the additional effect of the two combined. Each of these is a separate independent variable .

To ensure the internal validity of an experiment , you should only change one independent variable at a time.

A control variable is any variable that’s held constant in a research study. It’s not a variable of interest in the study, but it’s controlled because it could influence the outcomes.

A confounding variable , also called a confounder or confounding factor, is a third variable in a study examining a potential cause-and-effect relationship.

A confounding variable is related to both the supposed cause and the supposed effect of the study. It can be difficult to separate the true effect of the independent variable from the effect of the confounding variable.

In your research design , it’s important to identify potential confounding variables and plan how you will reduce their impact.

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How To Make Conceptual Framework (With Examples and Templates)

We all know that a research paper has plenty of concepts involved. However, a great deal of concepts makes your study confusing.

A conceptual framework ensures that the concepts of your study are organized and presented comprehensively. Let this article guide you on how to make the conceptual framework of your study.

Related: How to Write a Concept Paper for Academic Research

At a glance: free conceptual framework templates.

Too busy to create a conceptual framework from scratch? No problem. We’ve created templates for each conceptual framework so you can start on the right foot. All you need to do is enter the details of the variables. Feel free to modify the design according to your needs. Please read the main article below to learn more about the conceptual framework.

Conceptual Framework Template #1: Independent-Dependent Variable Model

Conceptual framework template #2: input-process-output (ipo) model, conceptual framework template #3: concept map, what is a conceptual framework.

A conceptual framework shows the relationship between the variables of your study. It includes a visual diagram or a model that summarizes the concepts of your study and a narrative explanation of the model presented.

Why Should Research Be Given a Conceptual Framework?

Imagine your study as a long journey with the research result as the destination. You don’t want to get lost in your journey because of the complicated concepts. This is why you need to have a guide. The conceptual framework keeps you on track by presenting and simplifying the relationship between the variables. This is usually done through the use of illustrations that are supported by a written interpretation.

Also, people who will read your research must have a clear guide to the variables in your study and where the research is heading. By looking at the conceptual framework, the readers can get the gist of the research concepts without reading the entire study.

Related: How to Write Significance of the Study (with Examples)

What Is the Difference Between Conceptual Framework and Theoretical Framework?

Both of them show concepts and ideas of your study. The theoretical framework presents the theories, rules, and principles that serve as the basis of the research. Thus, the theoretical framework presents broad concepts related to your study. On the other hand, the conceptual framework shows a specific approach derived from the theoretical framework. It provides particular variables and shows how these variables are related.

Let’s say your research is about the Effects of Social Media on the Political Literacy of College Students. You may include some theories related to political literacy, such as this paper, in your theoretical framework. Based on this paper, political participation and awareness determine political literacy.

For the conceptual framework, you may state that the specific form of political participation and awareness you will use for the study is the engagement of college students on political issues on social media. Then, through a diagram and narrative explanation, you can show that using social media affects the political literacy of college students.

What Are the Different Types of Conceptual Frameworks?

The conceptual framework has different types based on how the research concepts are organized 1 .

1. Taxonomy

In this type of conceptual framework, the phenomena of your study are grouped into categories without presenting the relationship among them. The point of this conceptual framework is to distinguish the categories from one another.

2. Visual Presentation

In this conceptual framework, the relationship between the phenomena and variables of your study is presented. Using this conceptual framework implies that your research provides empirical evidence to prove the relationship between variables. This is the type of conceptual framework that is usually used in research studies.

3. Mathematical Description

In this conceptual framework, the relationship between phenomena and variables of your study is described using mathematical formulas. Also, the extent of the relationship between these variables is presented with specific quantities.

How To Make Conceptual Framework: 4 Steps

1. identify the important variables of your study.

There are two essential variables that you must identify in your study: the independent and the dependent variables.

An independent variable is a variable that you can manipulate. It can affect the dependent variable. Meanwhile, the dependent variable is the resulting variable that you are measuring.

You may refer to your research question to determine your research’s independent and dependent variables.

Suppose your research question is: “Is There a Significant Relationship Between the Quantity of Organic Fertilizer Used and the Plant’s Growth Rate?” The independent variable of this study is the quantity of organic fertilizer used, while the dependent variable is the plant’s growth rate.

2. Think About How the Variables Are Related

Usually, the variables of a study have a direct relationship. If a change in one of your variables leads to a corresponding change in another, they might have this kind of relationship.

However, note that having a direct relationship between variables does not mean they already have a cause-and-effect relationship 2 . It takes statistical analysis to prove causation between variables.

Using our example earlier, the quantity of organic fertilizer may directly relate to the plant’s growth rate. However, we are not sure that the quantity of organic fertilizer is the sole reason for the plant’s growth rate changes.

3. Analyze and Determine Other Influencing Variables

Consider analyzing if other variables can affect the relationship between your independent and dependent variables 3 .

4. Create a Visual Diagram or a Model

Now that you’ve identified the variables and their relationship, you may create a visual diagram summarizing them.

Usually, shapes such as rectangles, circles, and arrows are used for the model. You may create a visual diagram or model for your conceptual framework in different ways. The three most common models are the independent-dependent variable model, the input-process-output (IPO) model, and concept maps.

a. Using the Independent-Dependent Variable Model

You may create this model by writing the independent and dependent variables inside rectangles. Then, insert a line segment between them, connecting the rectangles. This line segment indicates the direct relationship between these variables.

Below is a visual diagram based on our example about the relationship between organic fertilizer and a plant’s growth rate.

b. Using the Input-Process-Output (IPO) Model

If you want to emphasize your research process, the input-process-output model is the appropriate visual diagram for your conceptual framework.

To create your visual diagram using the IPO model, follow these steps:

Determine the inputs of your study . Inputs are the variables you will use to arrive at your research result. Usually, your independent variables are also the inputs of your research. Let’s say your research is about the Level of Satisfaction of College Students Using Google Classroom as an Online Learning Platform. You may include in your inputs the profile of your respondents and the curriculum used in the online learning platform.
Outline your research process. Using our example above, the research process should be like this: Data collection of student profiles → Administering questionnaires → Tabulation of students’ responses → Statistical data analysis.
State the research output . Indicate what you are expecting after you conduct the research. In our example above, the research output is the assessed level of satisfaction of college students with the use of Google Classroom as an online learning platform.
Create the model using the research’s determined input, process, and output.

Presented below is the IPO model for our example above.

c. Using Concept Maps

If you think the two models presented previously are insufficient to summarize your study’s concepts, you may use a concept map for your visual diagram.

A concept map is a helpful visual diagram if multiple variables affect one another. Let’s say your research is about Coping with the Remote Learning System: Anxiety Levels of College Students. Presented below is the concept map for the research’s conceptual framework:

5. Explain Your Conceptual Framework in Narrative Form

Provide a brief explanation of your conceptual framework. State the essential variables, their relationship, and the research outcome.

Using the same example about the relationship between organic fertilizer and the growth rate of the plant, we can come up with the following explanation to accompany the conceptual framework:

Figure 1 shows the Conceptual Framework of the study. The quantity of the organic fertilizer used is the independent variable, while the plant’s growth is the research’s dependent variable. These two variables are directly related based on the research’s empirical evidence.

Conceptual Framework in Quantitative Research

You can create your conceptual framework by following the steps discussed in the previous section. Note, however, that quantitative research has statistical analysis. Thus, you may use arrows to indicate a cause-and-effect relationship in your model. An arrow implies that your independent variable caused the changes in your dependent variable.

Usually, for quantitative research, the Input-Process-Output model is used as a visual diagram. Here is an example of a conceptual framework in quantitative research:

Research Topic : Level of Effectiveness of Corn (Zea mays) Silk Ethanol Extract as an Antioxidant

Conceptual Framework in Qualitative Research

Again, you can follow the same step-by-step guide discussed previously to create a conceptual framework for qualitative research. However, note that you should avoid using one-way arrows as they may indicate causation . Qualitative research cannot prove causation since it uses only descriptive and narrative analysis to relate variables.

Here is an example of a conceptual framework in qualitative research:

Research Topic : Lived Experiences of Medical Health Workers During Community Quarantine

Conceptual Framework Examples

Presented below are some examples of conceptual frameworks.

Research Topic : Hypoglycemic Ability of Gabi (Colocasia esculenta) Leaf Extract in the Blood Glucose Level of Swiss Mice (Mus musculus)

Figure 1 presents the Conceptual Framework of the study. The quantity of gabi leaf extract is the independent variable, while the Swiss mice’s blood glucose level is the study’s dependent variable. This study establishes a direct relationship between these variables through empirical evidence and statistical analysis .

Research Topic : Level of Effectiveness of Using Social Media in the Political Literacy of College Students

Figure 1 shows the Conceptual Framework of the study. The input is the profile of the college students according to sex, year level, and the social media platform being used. The research process includes administering the questionnaires, tabulating students’ responses, and statistical data analysis and interpretation. The output is the effectiveness of using social media in the political literacy of college students.

Research Topic: Factors Affecting the Satisfaction Level of Community Inhabitants

Figure 1 presents a visual illustration of the factors that affect the satisfaction level of community inhabitants. As presented, environmental, societal, and economic factors influence the satisfaction level of community inhabitants. Each factor has its indicators which are considered in this study.

Tips and Warnings

Please keep it simple. Avoid using fancy illustrations or designs when creating your conceptual framework.
Allot a lot of space for feedback. This is to show that your research variables or methodology might be revised based on the input from the research panel. Below is an example of a conceptual framework with a spot allotted for feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how can i create a conceptual framework in microsoft word.

First, click the Insert tab and select Shapes . You’ll see a wide range of shapes to choose from. Usually, rectangles, circles, and arrows are the shapes used for the conceptual framework.

Next, draw your selected shape in the document.

Insert the name of the variable inside the shape. You can do this by pointing your cursor to the shape, right-clicking your mouse, selecting Add Text , and typing in the text.

Repeat the same process for the remaining variables of your study. If you need arrows to connect the different variables, you can insert one by going to the Insert tab, then Shape, and finally, Lines or Block Arrows, depending on your preferred arrow style.

2. How to explain my conceptual framework in defense?

If you have used the Independent-Dependent Variable Model in creating your conceptual framework, start by telling your research’s variables. Afterward, explain the relationship between these variables. Example: “Using statistical/descriptive analysis of the data we have collected, we are going to show how the <state your independent variable> exhibits a significant relationship to <state your dependent variable>.”

On the other hand, if you have used an Input-Process-Output Model, start by explaining the inputs of your research. Then, tell them about your research process. You may refer to the Research Methodology in Chapter 3 to accurately present your research process. Lastly, explain what your research outcome is.

Meanwhile, if you have used a concept map, ensure you understand the idea behind the illustration. Discuss how the concepts are related and highlight the research outcome.

3. In what stage of research is the conceptual framework written?

The research study’s conceptual framework is in Chapter 2, following the Review of Related Literature.

4. What is the difference between a Conceptual Framework and Literature Review?

The Conceptual Framework is a summary of the concepts of your study where the relationship of the variables is presented. On the other hand, Literature Review is a collection of published studies and literature related to your study.

Suppose your research concerns the Hypoglycemic Ability of Gabi (Colocasia esculenta) Leaf Extract on Swiss Mice (Mus musculus). In your conceptual framework, you will create a visual diagram and a narrative explanation presenting the quantity of gabi leaf extract and the mice’s blood glucose level as your research variables. On the other hand, for the literature review, you may include this study and explain how this is related to your research topic.

5. When do I use a two-way arrow for my conceptual framework?

You will use a two-way arrow in your conceptual framework if the variables of your study are interdependent. If variable A affects variable B and variable B also affects variable A, you may use a two-way arrow to show that A and B affect each other.

Suppose your research concerns the Relationship Between Students’ Satisfaction Levels and Online Learning Platforms. Since students’ satisfaction level determines the online learning platform the school uses and vice versa, these variables have a direct relationship. Thus, you may use two-way arrows to indicate that the variables directly affect each other.

Conceptual Framework – Meaning, Importance and How to Write it. (2020). Retrieved 27 April 2021, from https://afribary.com/knowledge/conceptual-framework/
Correlation vs Causation. Retrieved 27 April 2021, from https://www.jmp.com/en_ph/statistics-knowledge-portal/what-is-correlation/correlation-vs-causation.html
Swaen, B., & George, T. (2022, August 22). What is a conceptual framework? Tips & Examples. Retrieved December 5, 2022, from https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/conceptual-framework/

Written by Jewel Kyle Fabula

in Career and Education , Juander How

Last Updated May 6, 2023 10:37 AM

Jewel Kyle Fabula

Jewel Kyle Fabula is a Bachelor of Science in Economics student at the University of the Philippines Diliman. His passion for learning mathematics developed as he competed in some mathematics competitions during his Junior High School years. He loves cats, playing video games, and listening to music.

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Writing Tips

How to Make a Conceptual Framework

6-minute read
2nd January 2022

What is a conceptual framework? And why is it important?

A conceptual framework illustrates the relationship between the variables of a research question. It’s an outline of what you’d expect to find in a research project.

Conceptual frameworks should be constructed before data collection and are vital because they map out the actions needed in the study. This should be the first step of an undergraduate or graduate research project.

What Is In a Conceptual Framework?

In a conceptual framework, you’ll find a visual representation of the key concepts and relationships that are central to a research study or project . This can be in form of a diagram, flow chart, or any other visual representation. Overall, a conceptual framework serves as a guide for understanding the problem being studied and the methods being used to investigate it.

Steps to Developing the Perfect Conceptual Framework

Pick a question
Conduct a literature review
Identify your variables
Create your conceptual framework

1. Pick a Question

You should already have some idea of the broad area of your research project. Try to narrow down your research field to a manageable topic in terms of time and resources. From there, you need to formulate your research question. A research question answers the researcher’s query: “What do I want to know about my topic?” Research questions should be focused, concise, arguable and, ideally, should address a topic of importance within your field of research.

An example of a simple research question is: “What is the relationship between sunny days and ice cream sales?”

2. Conduct a Literature Review

A literature review is an analysis of the scholarly publications on a chosen topic. To undertake a literature review, search for articles with the same theme as your research question. Choose updated and relevant articles to analyze and use peer-reviewed and well-respected journals whenever possible.

For the above example, the literature review would investigate publications that discuss how ice cream sales are affected by the weather. The literature review should reveal the variables involved and any current hypotheses about this relationship.

3. Identify Your Variables

There are two key variables in every experiment: independent and dependent variables.

Independent Variables

The independent variable (otherwise known as the predictor or explanatory variable) is the expected cause of the experiment: what the scientist changes or changes on its own. In our example, the independent variable would be “the number of sunny days.”

Dependent Variables

The dependent variable (otherwise known as the response or outcome variable) is the expected effect of the experiment: what is being studied or measured. In our example, the dependent variable would be “the quantity of ice cream sold.”

Next, there are control variables.

Control Variables

A control variable is a variable that may impact the dependent variable but whose effects are not going to be measured in the research project. In our example, a control variable could be “the socioeconomic status of participants.” Control variables should be kept constant to isolate the effects of the other variables in the experiment.

Finally, there are intervening and extraneous variables.

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Intervening Variables

Intervening variables link the independent and dependent variables and clarify their connection. In our example, an intervening variable could be “temperature.”

Extraneous Variables

Extraneous variables are any variables that are not being investigated but could impact the outcomes of the study. Some instances of extraneous variables for our example would be “the average price of ice cream” or “the number of varieties of ice cream available.” If you control an extraneous variable, it becomes a control variable.

4. Create Your Conceptual Framework

Having picked your research question, undertaken a literature review, and identified the relevant variables, it’s now time to construct your conceptual framework. Conceptual frameworks are clear and often visual representations of the relationships between variables.

We’ll start with the basics: the independent and dependent variables.

Our hypothesis is that the quantity of ice cream sold directly depends on the number of sunny days; hence, there is a cause-and-effect relationship between the independent variable (the number of sunny days) and the dependent and independent variable (the quantity of ice cream sold).

Next, introduce a control variable. Remember, this is anything that might directly affect the dependent variable but is not being measured in the experiment:

Finally, introduce the intervening and extraneous variables.

The intervening variable (temperature) clarifies the relationship between the independent variable (the number of sunny days) and the dependent variable (the quantity of ice cream sold). Extraneous variables, such as the average price of ice cream, are variables that are not controlled and can potentially impact the dependent variable.

Are Conceptual Frameworks and Research Paradigms the Same?

In simple terms, the research paradigm is what informs your conceptual framework. In defining our research paradigm we ask the big questions—Is there an objective truth and how can we understand it? If we decide the answer is yes, we may be working with a positivist research paradigm and will choose to build a conceptual framework that displays the relationship between fixed variables. If not, we may be working with a constructivist research paradigm, and thus our conceptual framework will be more of a loose amalgamation of ideas, theories, and themes (a qualitative study). If this is confusing–don’t worry! We have an excellent blog post explaining research paradigms in more detail.

Where is the Conceptual Framework Located in a Thesis?

This will depend on your discipline, research type, and school’s guidelines, but most papers will include a section presenting the conceptual framework in the introduction, literature review, or opening chapter. It’s best to present your conceptual framework after presenting your research question, but before outlining your methodology.

Can a Conceptual Framework be Used in a Qualitative Study?

Yes. Despite being less clear-cut than a quantitative study, all studies should present some form of a conceptual framework. Let’s say you were doing a study on care home practices and happiness, and you came across a “happiness model” constructed by a relevant theorist in your literature review. Your conceptual framework could be an outline or a visual depiction of how you will use this model to collect and interpret qualitative data for your own study (such as interview responses). Check out this useful resource showing other examples of conceptual frameworks for qualitative studies .

Expert Proofreading for Researchers

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Home » Conceptual Framework – Types, Methodology and Examples

Conceptual Framework – Types, Methodology and Examples

Table of Contents

Conceptual Framework

Definition:

A conceptual framework is a structured approach to organizing and understanding complex ideas, theories, or concepts. It provides a systematic and coherent way of thinking about a problem or topic, and helps to guide research or analysis in a particular field.

A conceptual framework typically includes a set of assumptions, concepts, and propositions that form a theoretical framework for understanding a particular phenomenon. It can be used to develop hypotheses, guide empirical research, or provide a framework for evaluating and interpreting data.

Conceptual Framework in Research

In research, a conceptual framework is a theoretical structure that provides a framework for understanding a particular phenomenon or problem. It is a key component of any research project and helps to guide the research process from start to finish.

A conceptual framework provides a clear understanding of the variables, relationships, and assumptions that underpin a research study. It outlines the key concepts that the study is investigating and how they are related to each other. It also defines the scope of the study and sets out the research questions or hypotheses.

Types of Conceptual Framework

Types of Conceptual Framework are as follows:

Theoretical Framework

A theoretical framework is an overarching set of concepts, ideas, and assumptions that help to explain and interpret a phenomenon. It provides a theoretical perspective on the phenomenon being studied and helps researchers to identify the relationships between different concepts. For example, a theoretical framework for a study on the impact of social media on mental health might draw on theories of communication, social influence, and psychological well-being.

Conceptual Model

A conceptual model is a visual or written representation of a complex system or phenomenon. It helps to identify the main components of the system and the relationships between them. For example, a conceptual model for a study on the factors that influence employee turnover might include factors such as job satisfaction, salary, work-life balance, and job security, and the relationships between them.

Empirical Framework

An empirical framework is based on empirical data and helps to explain a particular phenomenon. It involves collecting data, analyzing it, and developing a framework to explain the results. For example, an empirical framework for a study on the impact of a new health intervention might involve collecting data on the intervention’s effectiveness, cost, and acceptability to patients.

Descriptive Framework

A descriptive framework is used to describe a particular phenomenon. It helps to identify the main characteristics of the phenomenon and to develop a vocabulary to describe it. For example, a descriptive framework for a study on different types of musical genres might include descriptions of the instruments used, the rhythms and beats, the vocal styles, and the cultural contexts of each genre.

Analytical Framework

An analytical framework is used to analyze a particular phenomenon. It involves breaking down the phenomenon into its constituent parts and analyzing them separately. This type of framework is often used in social science research. For example, an analytical framework for a study on the impact of race on police brutality might involve analyzing the historical and cultural factors that contribute to racial bias, the organizational factors that influence police behavior, and the psychological factors that influence individual officers’ behavior.

Conceptual Framework for Policy Analysis

A conceptual framework for policy analysis is used to guide the development of policies or programs. It helps policymakers to identify the key issues and to develop strategies to address them. For example, a conceptual framework for a policy analysis on climate change might involve identifying the key stakeholders, assessing their interests and concerns, and developing policy options to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Logical Frameworks

Logical frameworks are used to plan and evaluate projects and programs. They provide a structured approach to identifying project goals, objectives, and outcomes, and help to ensure that all stakeholders are aligned and working towards the same objectives.

Conceptual Frameworks for Program Evaluation

These frameworks are used to evaluate the effectiveness of programs or interventions. They provide a structure for identifying program goals, objectives, and outcomes, and help to measure the impact of the program on its intended beneficiaries.

Conceptual Frameworks for Organizational Analysis

These frameworks are used to analyze and evaluate organizational structures, processes, and performance. They provide a structured approach to understanding the relationships between different departments, functions, and stakeholders within an organization.

Conceptual Frameworks for Strategic Planning

These frameworks are used to develop and implement strategic plans for organizations or businesses. They help to identify the key factors and stakeholders that will impact the success of the plan, and provide a structure for setting goals, developing strategies, and monitoring progress.

Components of Conceptual Framework

The components of a conceptual framework typically include:

Research question or problem statement : This component defines the problem or question that the conceptual framework seeks to address. It sets the stage for the development of the framework and guides the selection of the relevant concepts and constructs.
Concepts : These are the general ideas, principles, or categories that are used to describe and explain the phenomenon or problem under investigation. Concepts provide the building blocks of the framework and help to establish a common language for discussing the issue.
Constructs : Constructs are the specific variables or concepts that are used to operationalize the general concepts. They are measurable or observable and serve as indicators of the underlying concept.
Propositions or hypotheses : These are statements that describe the relationships between the concepts or constructs in the framework. They provide a basis for testing the validity of the framework and for generating new insights or theories.
Assumptions : These are the underlying beliefs or values that shape the framework. They may be explicit or implicit and may influence the selection and interpretation of the concepts and constructs.
Boundaries : These are the limits or scope of the framework. They define the focus of the investigation and help to clarify what is included and excluded from the analysis.
Context : This component refers to the broader social, cultural, and historical factors that shape the phenomenon or problem under investigation. It helps to situate the framework within a larger theoretical or empirical context and to identify the relevant variables and factors that may affect the phenomenon.
Relationships and connections: These are the connections and interrelationships between the different components of the conceptual framework. They describe how the concepts and constructs are linked and how they contribute to the overall understanding of the phenomenon or problem.
Variables : These are the factors that are being measured or observed in the study. They are often operationalized as constructs and are used to test the propositions or hypotheses.
Methodology : This component describes the research methods and techniques that will be used to collect and analyze data. It includes the sampling strategy, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations.
Literature review : This component provides an overview of the existing research and theories related to the phenomenon or problem under investigation. It helps to identify the gaps in the literature and to situate the framework within the broader theoretical and empirical context.
Outcomes and implications: These are the expected outcomes or implications of the study. They describe the potential contributions of the study to the theoretical and empirical knowledge in the field and the practical implications for policy and practice.

Conceptual Framework Methodology

Conceptual Framework Methodology is a research method that is commonly used in academic and scientific research to develop a theoretical framework for a study. It is a systematic approach that helps researchers to organize their thoughts and ideas, identify the variables that are relevant to their study, and establish the relationships between these variables.

Here are the steps involved in the conceptual framework methodology:

Identify the Research Problem

The first step is to identify the research problem or question that the study aims to answer. This involves identifying the gaps in the existing literature and determining what specific issue the study aims to address.

Conduct a Literature Review

The second step involves conducting a thorough literature review to identify the existing theories, models, and frameworks that are relevant to the research question. This will help the researcher to identify the key concepts and variables that need to be considered in the study.

Define key Concepts and Variables

The next step is to define the key concepts and variables that are relevant to the study. This involves clearly defining the terms used in the study, and identifying the factors that will be measured or observed in the study.

Develop a Theoretical Framework

Once the key concepts and variables have been identified, the researcher can develop a theoretical framework. This involves establishing the relationships between the key concepts and variables, and creating a visual representation of these relationships.

Test the Framework

The final step is to test the theoretical framework using empirical data. This involves collecting and analyzing data to determine whether the relationships between the key concepts and variables that were identified in the framework are accurate and valid.

Examples of Conceptual Framework

Some realtime Examples of Conceptual Framework are as follows:

In economics , the concept of supply and demand is a well-known conceptual framework. It provides a structure for understanding how prices are set in a market, based on the interplay of the quantity of goods supplied by producers and the quantity of goods demanded by consumers.
In psychology , the cognitive-behavioral framework is a widely used conceptual framework for understanding mental health and illness. It emphasizes the role of thoughts and behaviors in shaping emotions and the importance of cognitive restructuring and behavior change in treatment.
In sociology , the social determinants of health framework provides a way of understanding how social and economic factors such as income, education, and race influence health outcomes. This framework is widely used in public health research and policy.
In environmental science , the ecosystem services framework is a way of understanding the benefits that humans derive from natural ecosystems, such as clean air and water, pollination, and carbon storage. This framework is used to guide conservation and land-use decisions.
In education, the constructivist framework is a way of understanding how learners construct knowledge through active engagement with their environment. This framework is used to guide instructional design and teaching strategies.

Applications of Conceptual Framework

Some of the applications of Conceptual Frameworks are as follows:

Research : Conceptual frameworks are used in research to guide the design, implementation, and interpretation of studies. Researchers use conceptual frameworks to develop hypotheses, identify research questions, and select appropriate methods for collecting and analyzing data.
Policy: Conceptual frameworks are used in policy-making to guide the development of policies and programs. Policymakers use conceptual frameworks to identify key factors that influence a particular problem or issue, and to develop strategies for addressing them.
Education : Conceptual frameworks are used in education to guide the design and implementation of instructional strategies and curriculum. Educators use conceptual frameworks to identify learning objectives, select appropriate teaching methods, and assess student learning.
Management : Conceptual frameworks are used in management to guide decision-making and strategy development. Managers use conceptual frameworks to understand the internal and external factors that influence their organizations, and to develop strategies for achieving their goals.
Evaluation : Conceptual frameworks are used in evaluation to guide the development of evaluation plans and to interpret evaluation results. Evaluators use conceptual frameworks to identify key outcomes, indicators, and measures, and to develop a logic model for their evaluation.

Purpose of Conceptual Framework

The purpose of a conceptual framework is to provide a theoretical foundation for understanding and analyzing complex phenomena. Conceptual frameworks help to:

Guide research : Conceptual frameworks provide a framework for researchers to develop hypotheses, identify research questions, and select appropriate methods for collecting and analyzing data. By providing a theoretical foundation for research, conceptual frameworks help to ensure that research is rigorous, systematic, and valid.
Provide clarity: Conceptual frameworks help to provide clarity and structure to complex phenomena by identifying key concepts, relationships, and processes. By providing a clear and systematic understanding of a phenomenon, conceptual frameworks help to ensure that researchers, policymakers, and practitioners are all on the same page when it comes to understanding the issue at hand.
Inform decision-making : Conceptual frameworks can be used to inform decision-making and strategy development by identifying key factors that influence a particular problem or issue. By understanding the complex interplay of factors that contribute to a particular issue, decision-makers can develop more effective strategies for addressing the problem.
Facilitate communication : Conceptual frameworks provide a common language and conceptual framework for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to communicate and collaborate on complex issues. By providing a shared understanding of a phenomenon, conceptual frameworks help to ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal.

When to use Conceptual Framework

There are several situations when it is appropriate to use a conceptual framework:

To guide the research : A conceptual framework can be used to guide the research process by providing a clear roadmap for the research project. It can help researchers identify key variables and relationships, and develop hypotheses or research questions.
To clarify concepts : A conceptual framework can be used to clarify and define key concepts and terms used in a research project. It can help ensure that all researchers are using the same language and have a shared understanding of the concepts being studied.
To provide a theoretical basis: A conceptual framework can provide a theoretical basis for a research project by linking it to existing theories or conceptual models. This can help researchers build on previous research and contribute to the development of a field.
To identify gaps in knowledge : A conceptual framework can help identify gaps in existing knowledge by highlighting areas that require further research or investigation.
To communicate findings : A conceptual framework can be used to communicate research findings by providing a clear and concise summary of the key variables, relationships, and assumptions that underpin the research project.

Characteristics of Conceptual Framework

key characteristics of a conceptual framework are:

Clear definition of key concepts : A conceptual framework should clearly define the key concepts and terms being used in a research project. This ensures that all researchers have a shared understanding of the concepts being studied.
Identification of key variables: A conceptual framework should identify the key variables that are being studied and how they are related to each other. This helps to organize the research project and provides a clear focus for the study.
Logical structure: A conceptual framework should have a logical structure that connects the key concepts and variables being studied. This helps to ensure that the research project is coherent and consistent.
Based on existing theory : A conceptual framework should be based on existing theory or conceptual models. This helps to ensure that the research project is grounded in existing knowledge and builds on previous research.
Testable hypotheses or research questions: A conceptual framework should include testable hypotheses or research questions that can be answered through empirical research. This helps to ensure that the research project is rigorous and scientifically valid.
Flexibility : A conceptual framework should be flexible enough to allow for modifications as new information is gathered during the research process. This helps to ensure that the research project is responsive to new findings and is able to adapt to changing circumstances.

Advantages of Conceptual Framework

Advantages of the Conceptual Framework are as follows:

Clarity : A conceptual framework provides clarity to researchers by outlining the key concepts and variables that are relevant to the research project. This clarity helps researchers to focus on the most important aspects of the research problem and develop a clear plan for investigating it.
Direction : A conceptual framework provides direction to researchers by helping them to develop hypotheses or research questions that are grounded in existing theory or conceptual models. This direction ensures that the research project is relevant and contributes to the development of the field.
Efficiency : A conceptual framework can increase efficiency in the research process by providing a structure for organizing ideas and data. This structure can help researchers to avoid redundancies and inconsistencies in their work, saving time and effort.
Rigor : A conceptual framework can help to ensure the rigor of a research project by providing a theoretical basis for the investigation. This rigor is essential for ensuring that the research project is scientifically valid and produces meaningful results.
Communication : A conceptual framework can facilitate communication between researchers by providing a shared language and understanding of the key concepts and variables being studied. This communication is essential for collaboration and the advancement of knowledge in the field.
Generalization : A conceptual framework can help to generalize research findings beyond the specific study by providing a theoretical basis for the investigation. This generalization is essential for the development of knowledge in the field and for informing future research.

Limitations of Conceptual Framework

Limitations of Conceptual Framework are as follows:

Limited applicability: Conceptual frameworks are often based on existing theory or conceptual models, which may not be applicable to all research problems or contexts. This can limit the usefulness of a conceptual framework in certain situations.
Lack of empirical support : While a conceptual framework can provide a theoretical basis for a research project, it may not be supported by empirical evidence. This can limit the usefulness of a conceptual framework in guiding empirical research.
Narrow focus: A conceptual framework can provide a clear focus for a research project, but it may also limit the scope of the investigation. This can make it difficult to address broader research questions or to consider alternative perspectives.
Over-simplification: A conceptual framework can help to organize and structure research ideas, but it may also over-simplify complex phenomena. This can limit the depth of the investigation and the richness of the data collected.
Inflexibility : A conceptual framework can provide a structure for organizing research ideas, but it may also be inflexible in the face of new data or unexpected findings. This can limit the ability of researchers to adapt their research project to new information or changing circumstances.
Difficulty in development : Developing a conceptual framework can be a challenging and time-consuming process. It requires a thorough understanding of existing theory or conceptual models, and may require collaboration with other researchers.

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What Is a Conceptual Framework? | Tips & Examples

What Is a Conceptual Framework? | Tips & Examples

Published on 4 May 2022 by Bas Swaen and Tegan George. Revised on 18 March 2024.

Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to help you construct your own conceptual framework.

Developing a conceptual framework in research, step 1: choose your research question, step 2: select your independent and dependent variables, step 3: visualise your cause-and-effect relationship, step 4: identify other influencing variables, frequently asked questions about conceptual models.

A conceptual framework is a representation of the relationship you expect to see between your variables, or the characteristics or properties that you want to study.

Conceptual frameworks can be written or visual and are generally developed based on a literature review of existing studies about your topic.

Your research question guides your work by determining exactly what you want to find out, giving your research process a clear focus.

In order to move forward with your research question and test a cause-and-effect relationship, you must first identify at least two key variables: your independent and dependent variables .

The expected cause, ‘hours of study’, is the independent variable (the predictor, or explanatory variable)
The expected effect, ‘exam score’, is the dependent variable (the response, or outcome variable).

Now that you’ve figured out your research question and variables, the first step in designing your conceptual framework is visualising your expected cause-and-effect relationship.

It’s crucial to identify other variables that can influence the relationship between your independent and dependent variables early in your research process.

Some common variables to include are moderating, mediating, and control variables.

Moderating variables

Moderating variable (or moderators) alter the effect that an independent variable has on a dependent variable. In other words, moderators change the ‘effect’ component of the cause-and-effect relationship.

Let’s add the moderator ‘IQ’. Here, a student’s IQ level can change the effect that the variable ‘hours of study’ has on the exam score. The higher the IQ, the fewer hours of study are needed to do well on the exam.

But the graph looks different when we add our ‘IQ’ moderator of 120. A student with this IQ will achieve a perfect score after just 15 hours of study.

Below, the value of the ‘IQ’ moderator has been increased to 150. A student with this IQ will only need to invest five hours of study in order to get a perfect score.

Here, we see that a moderating variable does indeed change the cause-and-effect relationship between two variables.

Mediating variables

Now we’ll expand the framework by adding a mediating variable . Mediating variables link the independent and dependent variables, allowing the relationship between them to be better explained.

Here’s how the conceptual framework might look if a mediator variable were involved:

Moderator vs mediator

It’s important not to confuse moderating and mediating variables. To remember the difference, you can think of them in relation to the independent variable:

A moderating variable is not affected by the independent variable, even though it affects the dependent variable. For example, no matter how many hours you study (the independent variable), your IQ will not get higher.
A mediating variable is affected by the independent variable. In turn, it also affects the dependent variable. Therefore, it links the two variables and helps explain the relationship between them.

Control variables

A mediator variable explains the process through which two variables are related, while a moderator variable affects the strength and direction of that relationship.

No. The value of a dependent variable depends on an independent variable, so a variable cannot be both independent and dependent at the same time. It must be either the cause or the effect, not both.

Yes, but including more than one of either type requires multiple research questions .

You could also choose to look at the effect of exercise levels as well as diet, or even the additional effect of the two combined. Each of these is a separate independent variable .

To ensure the internal validity of an experiment , you should only change one independent variable at a time.

A control variable is any variable that’s held constant in a research study. It’s not a variable of interest in the study, but it’s controlled because it could influence the outcomes.

A confounding variable , also called a confounder or confounding factor, is a third variable in a study examining a potential cause-and-effect relationship.

In your research design , it’s important to identify potential confounding variables and plan how you will reduce their impact.

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Conceptual Framework: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make One

What is a conceptual framework? How do you prepare one? This article defines the conceptual framework and lists the steps on how to prepare it. A simplified example is added to strengthen the reader’s understanding.

In preparing your research paper as one requirement for your course as an undergraduate or graduate student, you will need to write the conceptual framework of your study. The conceptual framework steers the whole research activity. The conceptual framework serves as a “map” or “rudder” that will guide you towards realizing your study’s objectives or intent.

What, then, is a conceptual framework in empirical research? The next section defines and explains the term.

Definition of conceptual framework.

A conceptual framework represents the researcher’s synthesis of the literature on how to explain a phenomenon. It maps out the actions required in the study’s course, given the researcher’s previous knowledge of other researchers’ point of view and his or her observations about the phenomenon studied.

The conceptual framework is the researcher’s understanding of how the particular variables in the study connect. Thus, it identifies the variables required in the research investigation. It is the researcher’s “map” in pursuing the investigation.

As McGaghie et al . (2001) put it: The conceptual framework “sets the stage” to present the particular research question that drives the investigation being reported based on the problem statement. The problem statement of a thesis gives the context and the issues that caused the researcher to conduct the study.

The conceptual framework lies within a much broader framework called a theoretical framework . The latter draws support from time-tested theories that embody many researchers’ findings on why and how a particular phenomenon occurs.

I expounded on this definition, including its purpose, in my recent post titled “ What is a Conceptual Framework? Expounded Definition and Five Purposes .”

4 Steps on How to Make the Conceptual Framework

Before you prepare your conceptual framework, you need to do the following things:

Choose your topic

Decide on what will be your research topic. The topic should be within your field of specialization. (Generate your research topic using brainstorming tips ).

Do a literature review

Review relevant and updated research on the theme that you decide to work on after scrutiny of the issue at hand. Preferably use peer-reviewed , and well-known scientific journals as these are reliable sources of information.

Isolate the important variables

Identify the specific variables described in the literature and figure out how these are related. Some research abstracts contain the variables, and the salient findings thus may serve the purpose. If these are not available, find the research paper’s summary.

If the variables are not explicit in summary, get back to the methodology or the results and discussion section and quickly identify the study variables and the significant findings. Read the TSPU Technique to skim articles efficiently and get to the essential points with little fuss.

Generate the conceptual framework

Build your conceptual framework using your mix of the variables from the scientific articles you have read. Your problem statement or research objective serves as a reference for constructing it. In effect, your study will attempt to answer the question that other researchers have not explained yet. Your research should address a knowledge gap .

Example of a Conceptual Framework

Research topic.

Statement number 5 introduced in an earlier post titled How to Write a Thesis Statement will serve as the basis of the illustrated conceptual framework in the following examples.

The youth, particularly students who need to devote a lot of time using their mobile phones to access their course modules, laptops, or desktops, are most affected. Also, they spend time interacting with their mobile phones as they communicate with their friends on social media channels like Facebook, Messenger, and the like.

When free from schoolwork, many students spend their time viewing films on Netflix, YouTube, or similar sites. These activities can affect their sleeping patterns and cause health problems in the long run because light-emitting diode (LED) exposure reduces the number of hours spent sleeping.

Thesis Statement

Related to the students’ activity, we can write the thesis statement thus:

Thesis statement : Chronic exposure to blue light from LED screens (of computer monitors , mobile phones, tablets, and television) deplete melatonin levels, thus reducing the number of sleeping hours among the youth, particularly students who need to work on their academic requirements.

Review of Literature

The literature review supports the thesis statement as among those that catch one’s attention is a paper that warns against the use of LED devices at night. Although we can save a lot of electrical energy by using the efficient LED where the inventors Isamu Akasaki, Hiroshi Amano and Shuji Nakamura received a Nobel prize in physics in 2014, there is growing evidence that it can cause human health problems, particularly cancer.

Haim & Zubidat (2015) of the Israeli Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Chronobiology synthesized the literature about LEDs. They found out that blue light from the light-emitting diodes (LED) inhibits melatonin production, particularly during active secretion at night. Melatonin is a neuro-hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles. Also, it can slow down aging and prevent cancer (Srinivasan et al., 2011).

Thus, looking directly at your laptop, mobile phone, or television at night not only can severely damage your eyes but also prevent the achievement of sound sleeping patterns. As a countermeasure, sleep experts recommend limiting the use of digital devices until 8 o’clock in the evening.

Those affected experience insomnia (see 10 Creative Ways on How to Get Rid of Insomnia ); they sleep less than required (usually less than six hours), and this happens when they spend too much time working on their laptops doing some machine learning stuff, monitoring conversations or posts on social media sites using their mobile phones, or viewing the television at night.

Variables Isolated from the Literature

Using the background information backed by evidence in the literature review, we can now develop the study’s paradigm on the effect of LED exposure to sleep. We will not include all the variables mentioned and select or isolate only those factors that we are interested in.

Figure 1 presents a visual representation, the paradigm, of what we want to correlate in this study. It shows measurable variables that can produce data we can analyze using a statistical test such as either the parametric test Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlation or the nonparametric test Spearman Rho (please refresh if you cannot see the figure).

Notice that the variables of the study are explicit in the paradigm presented in Figure 1. In the illustration, the two variables are:

1) the number of hours devoted in front of the computer, and 2) the number of hours slept through the night until dawn.

The former is the independent variable, while the latter is the dependent variable. Both variables are easy to measure. It is just counting the number of hours spent in front of the computer and the number of hours slept through the night in the study subjects.

Assuming that other things are constant during the study’s performance, it will be possible to relate these two variables and confirm that, indeed, blue light emanated from computer screens can affect one’s sleeping patterns. (Please read the article titled “ Do you know that the computer can disturb your sleeping patterns ?” to find out more about this phenomenon). A correlation analysis will show if the relationship is significant.

Evolution of a Social Theory as Basis of Conceptual Framework Development

Related to the development of the conceptual framework, I wrote a comprehensive article on how a social theory develops by incisively looking at current events that the world is facing now — the COVID-19 pandemic. It shows how society responds to a threat to its very survival.

Specifically, this article focuses on the COVID-19 vaccine, how it develops and gets integrated into the complex fabric of human society. It shows how the development of the vaccine is only part of the story. A major consideration in its development resides in the supporters of the vaccine’s development, the government, and the recipients’ trust, thus the final acceptance of the vaccine.

Social theory serves as the backdrop or theoretical framework of the more focused or variable level conceptual framework. Hence, the paradigm that I develop at the end of that article can serve as a lens to examine how the three players of vaccine development interact more closely at the variable level. It shows the dynamics of power and social structure and how it unfolds in response to a pandemic that affects everyone.

Check out the article titled “ Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine: More Than 90% Effective Against the Coronavirus .” This article shall enrich your knowledge of how an abstract concept narrows down into blocks of researchable topics.

Haim, A., & Zubidat, A. E. (2015). LED light between Nobel Prize and cancer risk factor. Chronobiology International , 32 (5), 725-727.

McGaghie, W. C.; Bordage, G.; and J. A. Shea (2001). Problem Statement, Conceptual Framework, and Research Question. Retrieved on January 5, 2015 from http://goo.gl/qLIUFg

Srinivasan, V., R Pandi-Perumal, S., Brzezinski, A., P Bhatnagar, K., & P Cardinali, D. (2011). Melatonin, immune function and cancer. Recent patents on endocrine, metabolic & immune drug discovery , 5 (2), 109-123.

Cite as: Regoniel, P. A. (2015, January 5). Conceptual framework: a step-by-step guide on how to make one. Research-based Articles. https://simplyeducate.me/wordpress_Y/2015/01/05/conceptual-framework-guide/

Five techniques to review related literature, how to write survey questions.

10 Research Methods: Types and Applications

About the author, patrick regoniel.

Dr. Regoniel, a faculty member of the graduate school, served as consultant to various environmental research and development projects covering issues and concerns on climate change, coral reef resources and management, economic valuation of environmental and natural resources, mining, and waste management and pollution. He has extensive experience on applied statistics, systems modelling and analysis, an avid practitioner of LaTeX, and a multidisciplinary web developer. He leverages pioneering AI-powered content creation tools to produce unique and comprehensive articles in this website.

104 Comments

hallo! I would like to study “the socio-economic and environmental Impact of urban forests on livelihood: The perception of urban residents” how can my conceptual framework be like?

Hello Jesse, there are many free alternatives online if you are diligent enough in finding them. The reason I wrote this article is that in 2015, when I originally wrote it, I could not find an easy-to-understand explanation of the conceptual framework which will help my students. I also have a vague knowledge of the concept at that time, even with the available literature. Hence, I painstakingly gathered all materials I could from online and offline literature, synthesized them, and wrote about the concept in the simplest way I could without losing the essence. Now, I have seen many articles and even videos using the ideas I have rigorously prepared. If you find the tedious work I did irrelevant, then perhaps the ebook is expensive notwithstanding the many expenses on hosting, domain name, time and effort in maintaining the site that I incur in keeping this website online and make this ebook available to everyone.

I read the article how still struggling to come up with a conceptual framework, may you please assist, how should I go about as a new researcher my topic; INVESTIGATE THE DECISION TO TRANSFER NINE (9) FUNCTIONS OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT . Purpose: The purpose of this research is to review the delivery of EHS at the local government with a view to understanding the variation in performance and their causes. questions are: 1.2.1 What factors explain the performance variation in the delivery of EHS across municipalities? 1.2.2 How has devolution of the EH function aided or harmed the delivery of EHS?

Hello Mr. Siyabonga. I think what you want to find out is how environmental health services (EHS) performed at the local government level. In doing so, you need to have a set of indicators of successful transition. How is performance assessed? Once you already have a measure of success, then you need to define which variables in the local government have significantly influenced performance. After you have done so, then you can try to correlate local government characteristics and their performance.

I hope that helps.

My name is Jobson, my research topic is: The scope of Ugandan nurses and midwives in using the nursing process in the care of patients

our topic is Neutrophil and Lymphocyte Ratio as a Diagnostic Biomarker for Kidney Stones (experimental) How do I come up with a conceptual framework? What would be the variables?

My topic: E-commerce Platform for Agricultural and Construction Supplies with e-KYC Identification, Feed Page, and Products Bidding Will you please help me to make Conceptual Framework written with visual representation. thank you so much in advance.

Good day Jomar, I am not so clear about what you want to do. Can you write the objectives of your study? You can read about framing the research objectives here: https://simplyeducate.me/wordpress_Y/2020/03/15/research-objective/

My topic is; Mitigating against Childmaltreatment in earlychildhood through positive parenting: Chronicles of first time parents in XYZ City”

How do I come up with a conceptual framework? What would be variables?

Hello Phathi, Apparently, you are trying to relate parenting and child behavior?

Assessing the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a storage information tool in estate management:

How do i come up with a conceptual framework. What would be variables??

Dear Mbuso, Why will you assess the GIS use in estate management? What is it for?

What is a good example of a conceptual framework?

Last updated

18 April 2023

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Miroslav Damyanov

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The importance of a conceptual framework

The main purpose of a conceptual framework is to improve the quality of a research study. A conceptual framework achieves this by identifying important information about the topic and providing a clear roadmap for researchers to study it.

Through the process of developing this information, researchers will be able to improve the quality of their studies in a few key ways.

Clarify research goals and objectives

A conceptual framework helps researchers create a clear research goal. Research projects often become vague and lose their focus, which makes them less useful. However, a well-designed conceptual framework helps researchers maintain focus. It reinforces the project’s scope, ensuring it stays on track and produces meaningful results.

Provide a theoretical basis for the study

Forming a hypothesis requires knowledge of the key variables and their relationship to each other. Researchers need to identify these variables early on to create a conceptual framework. This ensures researchers have developed a strong understanding of the topic before finalizing the study design. It also helps them select the most appropriate research and analysis methods.

Guide the research design

As they develop their conceptual framework, researchers often uncover information that can help them further refine their work.

Here are some examples:

Confounding variables they hadn’t previously considered

Sources of bias they will have to take into account when designing the project

Whether or not the information they were going to study has already been covered—this allows them to pivot to a more meaningful goal that brings new and relevant information to their field

Steps to develop a conceptual framework

There are four major steps researchers will follow to develop a conceptual framework. Each step will be described in detail in the sections that follow. You’ll also find examples of how each might be applied in a range of fields.

Step 1: Choose the research question

The first step in creating a conceptual framework is choosing a research question . The goal of this step is to create a question that’s specific and focused.

By developing a clear question, researchers can more easily identify the variables they will need to account for and keep their research focused. Without it, the next steps will be more difficult and less effective.

Here are some examples of good research questions in a few common fields:

Natural sciences: How does exposure to ultraviolet radiation affect the growth rate of a particular type of algae?

Health sciences: What is the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression in adolescents?

Business: What factors contribute to the success of small businesses in a particular industry?

Education: How does implementing technology in the classroom impact student learning outcomes?

Step 2: Select the independent and dependent variables

Once the research question has been chosen, it’s time to identify the dependent and independent variables .

The independent variable is the variable researchers think will affect the dependent variable . Without this information, researchers cannot develop a meaningful hypothesis or design a way to test it.

The dependent and independent variables for our example questions above are:

Natural sciences

Independent variable: exposure to ultraviolet radiation

Dependent variable: the growth rate of a particular type of algae

Health sciences

Independent variable: cognitive-behavioral therapy

Dependent variable: depression in adolescents

Independent variables: factors contributing to the business’s success

Dependent variable: sales, return on investment (ROI), or another concrete metric

Independent variable: implementation of technology in the classroom

Dependent variable: student learning outcomes, such as test scores, GPAs, or exam results

Step 3: Visualize the cause-and-effect relationship

This step is where researchers actually develop their hypothesis. They will predict how the independent variable will impact the dependent variable based on their knowledge of the field and their intuition.

With a hypothesis formed, researchers can more accurately determine what data to collect and how to analyze it. They will then visualize their hypothesis by creating a diagram. This visualization will serve as a framework to help guide their research.

The diagrams for our examples might be used as follows:

Natural sciences : how exposure to radiation affects the biological processes in the algae that contribute to its growth rate

Health sciences : how different aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy can affect how patients experience symptoms of depression

Business : how factors such as market demand, managerial expertise, and financial resources influence a business’s success

Education : how different types of technology interact with different aspects of the learning process and alter student learning outcomes

Step 4: Identify other influencing variables

The independent and dependent variables are only part of the equation. Moderating, mediating, and control variables are also important parts of a well-designed study. These variables can impact the relationship between the two main variables and must be accounted for.

A moderating variable is one that can change how the independent variable affects the dependent variable. A mediating variable explains the relationship between the two. Control variables are kept the same to eliminate their impact on the results. Examples of each are given below:

Moderating variable: water temperature (might impact how algae respond to radiation exposure)

Mediating variable: chlorophyll production (might explain how radiation exposure affects algae growth rate)

Control variable: nutrient levels in the water

Moderating variable: the severity of depression symptoms at baseline might impact how effective the therapy is for different adolescents

Mediating variable: social support might explain how cognitive-behavioral therapy leads to improvements in depression

Control variable: other forms of treatment received before or during the study

Moderating variable: the size of the business (might impact how different factors contribute to market share, sales, ROI, and other key success metrics)

Mediating variable: customer satisfaction (might explain how different factors impact business success)

Control variable: industry competition

Moderating variable: student age (might impact how effective technology is for different students)

Mediating variable: teacher training (might explain how technology leads to improvements in learning outcomes)

Control variable: student learning style

Conceptual versus theoretical frameworks

Although they sound similar, conceptual and theoretical frameworks have different goals and are used in different contexts. Understanding which to use will help researchers craft better studies.

Conceptual frameworks describe a broad overview of the subject and outline key concepts, variables, and the relationships between them. They provide structure to studies that are more exploratory in nature, where the relationships between the variables are still being established. They are particularly helpful in studies that are complex or interdisciplinary because they help researchers better organize the factors involved in the study.

Theoretical frameworks, on the other hand, are used when the research question is more clearly defined and there’s an existing body of work to draw upon. They define the relationships between the variables and help researchers predict outcomes. They are particularly helpful when researchers want to refine the existing body of knowledge rather than establish it.

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Defining The Conceptual Framework

Making a conceptual framework, conceptual framework for dmft students, conceptual framework guide, example frameworks, additional framework resources.

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What is it?

The researcher’s understanding/hypothesis/exploration of either an existing framework/model or how existing concepts come together to inform a particular problem. Shows the reader how different elements come together to facilitate research and a clear understanding of results.
Informs the research questions/methodology (problem statement drives framework drives RQs drives methodology)
A tool (linked concepts) to help facilitate the understanding of the relationship among concepts or variables in relation to the real-world. Each concept is linked to frame the project in question.
Falls inside of a larger theoretical framework (theoretical framework = explains the why and how of a particular phenomenon within a particular body of literature).
Can be a graphic or a narrative – but should always be explained and cited
Can be made up of theories and concepts

What does it do?

Explains or predicts the way key concepts/variables will come together to inform the problem/phenomenon
Gives the study direction/parameters
Helps the researcher organize ideas and clarify concepts
Introduces your research and how it will advance your field of practice. A conceptual framework should include concepts applicable to the field of study. These can be in the field or neighboring fields – as long as important details are captured and the framework is relevant to the problem. (alignment)

What should be in it?

Variables, concepts, theories, and/or parts of other existing frameworks

How to make a conceptual framework

With a topic in mind, go to the body of literature and start identifying the key concepts used by other studies. Figure out what’s been done by other researchers, and what needs to be done (either find a specific call to action outlined in the literature or make sure your proposed problem has yet to be studied in your specific setting). Use what you find needs to be done to either support a pre-identified problem or craft a general problem for study. Only rely on scholarly sources for this part of your research.
Begin to pull out variables, concepts, theories, and existing frameworks explained in the relevant literature.
If you’re building a framework, start thinking about how some of those variables, concepts, theories, and facets of existing frameworks come together to shape your problem. The problem could be a situational condition that requires a scholar-practitioner approach, the result of a practical need, or an opportunity to further an applicational study, project, or research. Remember, if the answer to your specific problem exists, you don’t need to conduct the study.
The actionable research you’d like to conduct will help shape what you include in your framework. Sketch the flow of your Applied Doctoral Project from start to finish and decide which variables are truly the best fit for your research.
Create a graphic representation of your framework (this part is optional, but often helps readers understand the flow of your research) Even if you do a graphic, first write out how the variables could influence your Applied Doctoral Project and introduce your methodology. Remember to use APA formatting in separating the sections of your framework to create a clear understanding of the framework for your reader.
As you move through your study, you may need to revise your framework.
Note for qualitative/quantitative research: If doing qualitative, make sure your framework doesn’t include arrow lines, which could imply causal or correlational linkages.
Conceptural and Theoretical Framework for DMFT Students This document is specific to DMFT students working on a conceptual or theoretical framework for their applied project.
Conceptual Framework Guide Use this guide to determine the guiding framework for your applied dissertation research.

Let’s say I’ve just taken a job as manager of a failing restaurant. Throughout first week, I notice the few customers they have are leaving unsatisfied. I need to figure out why and turn the establishment into a thriving restaurant. I get permission from the owner to do a study to figure out exactly what we need to do to raise levels of customer satisfaction. Since I have a specific problem and want to make sure my research produces valid results, I go to the literature to find out what others are finding about customer satisfaction in the food service industry. This particular restaurant is vegan focused – and my search of the literature doesn’t say anything specific about how to increase customer service in a vegan atmosphere, so I know this research needs to be done.

I find out there are different types of satisfaction across other genres of the food service industry, and the one I’m interested in is cumulative customer satisfaction. I then decide based on what I’m seeing in the literature that my definition of customer satisfaction is the way perception, evaluation, and psychological reaction to perception and evaluation of both tangible and intangible elements of the dining experience come together to inform customer expectations. Essentially, customer expectations inform customer satisfaction.

I then find across the literature many variables could be significant in determining customer satisfaction. Because the following keep appearing, they are the ones I choose to include in my framework: price, service, branding (branched out to include physical environment and promotion), and taste. I also learn by reading the literature, satisfaction can vary between genders – so I want to make sure to also collect demographic information in my survey. Gender, age, profession, and number of children are a few demographic variables I understand would be helpful to include based on my extensive literature review.

Note: this is a quantitative study. I’m including all variables in this study, and the variables I am testing are my independent variables. Here I’m working to see how each of the independent variables influences (or not) my dependent variable, customer satisfaction. If you are interested in qualitative study, read on for an example of how to make the same framework qualitative in nature.

Also note: when you create your framework, you’ll need to cite each facet of your framework. Tell the reader where you got everything you’re including. Not only is it in compliance with APA formatting, but also it raises your credibility as a researcher. Once you’ve built the narrative around your framework, you may also want to create a visual for your reader.

See below for one example of how to illustrate your framework:

how to write conceptual framework for research proposal

If you’re interested in a qualitative study, be sure to omit arrows and other notations inferring statistical analysis. The only time it would be inappropriate to include a framework in qualitative study is in a grounded theory study, which is not something you’ll do in an applied doctoral study.

A visual example of a qualitative framework is below:

Some additional helpful resources in constructing a conceptual framework for study:

Problem Statement, Conceptual Framework, and Research Question. McGaghie, W. C.; Bordage, G.; and J. A. Shea (2001). Problem Statement, Conceptual Framework, and Research Question. Retrieved on January 5, 2015 from http://goo.gl/qLIUFg
Building a Conceptual Framework: Philosophy, Definitions, and Procedure
https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/conceptual-framework/
https://www.projectguru.in/developing-conceptual-framework-in-a-research-paper/

Conceptual Framework Research

A conceptual framework is a synthetization of interrelated components and variables which help in solving a real-world problem. It is the final lens used for viewing the deductive resolution of an identified issue (Imenda, 2014). The development of a conceptual framework begins with a deductive assumption that a problem exists, and the application of processes, procedures, functional approach, models, or theory may be used for problem resolution (Zackoff et al., 2019). The application of theory in traditional theoretical research is to understand, explain, and predict phenomena (Swanson, 2013). In applied research the application of theory in problem solving focuses on how theory in conjunction with practice (applied action) and procedures (functional approach) frames vision, thinking, and action towards problem resolution. The inclusion of theory in a conceptual framework is not focused on validation or devaluation of applied theories. A concise way of viewing the conceptual framework is a list of understood fact-based conditions that presents the researcher’s prescribed thinking for solving the identified problem. These conditions provide a methodological rationale of interrelated ideas and approaches for beginning, executing, and defining the outcome of problem resolution efforts (Leshem & Trafford, 2007).

The term conceptual framework and theoretical framework are often and erroneously used interchangeably (Grant & Osanloo, 2014). Just as with traditional research, a theory does not or cannot be expected to explain all phenomenal conditions, a conceptual framework is not a random identification of disparate ideas meant to incase a problem. Instead it is a means of identifying and constructing for the researcher and reader alike an epistemological mindset and a functional worldview approach to the identified problem.

Grant, C., & Osanloo, A. (2014). Understanding, Selecting, and Integrating a Theoretical Framework in Dissertation Research: Creating the Blueprint for Your “House. ” Administrative Issues Journal: Connecting Education, Practice, and Research, 4(2), 12–26

Imenda, S. (2014). Is There a Conceptual Difference between Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks? Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi/Journal of Social Sciences, 38(2), 185.

Leshem, S., & Trafford, V. (2007). Overlooking the conceptual framework. Innovations in Education & Teaching International, 44(1), 93–105. https://doi-org.proxy1.ncu.edu/10.1080/14703290601081407

Swanson, R. (2013). Theory building in applied disciplines . San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

Zackoff, M. W., Real, F. J., Klein, M. D., Abramson, E. L., Li, S.-T. T., & Gusic, M. E. (2019). Enhancing Educational Scholarship Through Conceptual Frameworks: A Challenge and Roadmap for Medical Educators . Academic Pediatrics, 19(2), 135–141. https://doi-org.proxy1.ncu.edu/10.1016/j.acap.2018.08.003

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Conceptual Framework – How to Develop it for Research

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In academic writing, a conceptual framework serves as a key component of the research methodology , providing a schematic representation of the concepts and their proposed relationships. This tool not only guides data collection and interpretation but also clarifies the research question and hypothesis. The conceptual framework aims to make research conclusions more meaningful and generalizable. It outlines the purpose and the importance of the research topic .

Inhaltsverzeichnis

1 Conceptual Framework – In a Nutshell
2 Definition: Conceptual framework
3 Conceptual framework: Independent vs. Dependent variables
4 Conceptual framework: Moderating variables
5 Conceptual framework: Mediating variables
6 Conceptual framework: Control variables

Conceptual Framework – In a Nutshell

The conceptual framework is a model used to show the relationship between the independent vs. dependent variables in a research problem .
Researchers consider several variables in a conceptual framework, including control variables, mediating variables, and monitoring variables.
It is important to identify control variables in a conceptual framework to minimize their effect on the findings of a study.

Definition: Conceptual framework

A conceptual framework is a visual model that illustrates the anticipated relationship between the cause and effect variables. It highlights the research goals and creates a layout of their relationship to form meaningful conclusions. The conceptual framework is usually drawn from the literature review during the early stages of research to form appropriate research questions .

Conceptual framework: Independent vs. Dependent variables

Researchers define independent vs. dependent variables to test for cause and effect when developing a conceptual framework.

Example of dependent vs. independent variables

You want to investigate whether drivers with more experience are involved in fewer accidents.

Hypothesis: The more experience a driver has, the fewer accidents they are likely to be involved in .
Independent variable: The years of experience
Dependent variable: The expected cause and the number of accidents

Unlike above, causal relationships in a conceptual framework usually have more than one independent variable .

Conceptual framework: Moderating variables

Moderating variables influence the strength of the relationship between two variables in a conceptual framework. They are used to determine the external validity of the research conclusions based on their ability to strengthen, negate or otherwise affect the association between the independent vs. dependent variables.

Moderating variables are helpful in a conceptual framework because they illustrate the relationship between different variables in a research topic .

Income levels can predict general happiness, although the relationship may be stronger for younger people than for older workers. Age is the moderating variable in this conceptual framework.

Conceptual-framework-moderating-variables

Moderators can be divided into categorical variables such as religion, blood group, or race and quantitative variables like height, age, and income.

In our study of drivers’ experience and accidents, we can introduce age as the moderating variable. In this case, a driver’s age can influence the effect of years of experience on the number of accidents. The researcher expects that ‘age’ moderates the effect of experience on road safety.

Conceptual framework: Mediating variables

A conceptual framework also takes mediating variables into account. They illustrate the impact of an independent variable on a dependent variable by showing how and why the effect occurs. A variable is considered a mediator if:

It is caused by an independent variable.
It affects the dependent variable.
The statistical correlation between the dependent and the independent variable is more significant when it is considered than when it’s not.

Conceptual-framework-mediating-variables

Researchers use mediation analysis to test if a variable is a mediator using ANOVA and linear regression analysis. ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) tests the presence and strength of the statistical differences between the means calculated from several independent samples.

ANOVA: Determines the effects of age, gender, and disposable income on average consumer spending per month.

Linear regression: Predicts the value of a dependent variable based on the value of the independent variable.

The main aims of linear regression in a conceptual framework are to test the effectiveness of a group of predictor values in predicting a result and identifying the significant predictors of the outcome.

An individual’s body weight has a linear relationship with their weight. The researcher expects that as the height of the person increases, their weight increases. A set of observations can be plotted on a scatter plot to illustrate the strength of the correlation between the variables.

Conceptual framework: Control variables

Control variables are also considered in the conceptual framework. They define factors controlled by the researcher as it may affect the findings of a study even though it is of no interest to the researcher when designing a conceptual framework.

Control variables are used to improve the validity of a research study by reducing the effect of other variables outside the scope of the study. They help researchers to determine the relationship between the key variables under observation.

Control variables can be managed directly by keeping them constant, for instance choosing participants within the same age group. They can also be managed indirectly by using random samples to reduce their effect.

Example of control variables in the conceptual framework

In our study of driver’s experience and accident rates, the weather may affect the rate of accidents. However, our primary focus is not on the relationship between the weather and accident rates, although it may affect the findings of our study. Therefore, The ‘weather’ is added as a control variable in our conceptual framework.

If a researcher fails to control some variables, it may be difficult to prove that they did not affect the research outcome. Control variables are used in experimental research to guarantee that the observable results are exclusively caused by the experimental design.

Variables in a conceptual framework can be controlled by:

Random assignment – Selecting random groups ensures there are no identifiable differences, which may skew your conclusions.
Statistical controls – You can isolate the effects of the control variable by measuring and controlling it.
Standardized procedures – Researchers should ensure the same methods are applied in all the groups in a study. Only the independent variables should be altered across groups to observe how they affect the dependent variable.

Conceptual-framework-independent-dependent-variables

What is the conceptual framework in research?

It is an illustration of the relationship between variables in a study. It is used to form the hypothesis that guides the methods of research.

What are control variables?

Control variables are factors that are directly or indirectly controlled by the researchers. They are extraneous variables that may affect the observations in a study.

Where are conceptual frameworks used?

Conceptual frameworks are used in multiple social sciences and humanities. They help in formulating and investigating the research problem.

What is a moderating variable in a conceptual framework?

A moderating variable influences the effect of an independent variable on a dependent variable. It is used to measure the impact of an additional variable on the dependent-independent variable relationship.

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Conceptual Framework: Complete Guide With Definition, Tips, & Examples

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A conceptual framework is a structure that guides the research process and provides a basis for interpreting and analyzing data. It helps researchers to understand how various factors and variables interact with each other in a study. The conceptual framework allows to identify the most important aspects of a research topic and figure out how to go about investigating it. It's usually presented as a diagram or flowchart that shows how the different variables influence fit together.

If you are reading this, chances are you are engaged in serious research and wondering what a conceptual framework means and why it matters. One of the requirements when conducting a study or preparing a research proposal , whether you are a novice or experienced scholar, is writing a conceptual framework. Therefore, it is essential to have a clear understanding of what a conceptual framework is and how to develop it. This guide offers a detailed conceptual framework definition, describes a step-by-step process of creating it, highlights its importance in qualitative research, and identifies which types you can use. The article also provides conceptual framework examples and additional tips to enhance your research skills and help you grasp ways of presenting a scientific paper. Alternatively, you can simply reach out to our professional dissertation writers and get your study finished for you effort-free.

What Is a Conceptual Framework: Definition

Conducting research is an integral part of life because it serves as a source of knowledge, innovation, and reliable information. It is also a demanding activity requiring one to assess information about specific issues. This is normally realized through formulating research questions or writing a hypothesis , investigating and analyzing data critically, and identifying solutions to a problem. To ensure the study is presented coherently to readers, a conceptual framework must be created. It allows you to explain the elements of the work, provide a detailed and logical view of concepts, and highlight how the various components of a project are interrelated. Conceptual frameworks are usually used as visual depictions that help in clarifying and organizing ideas or identifying relationships that will be used in framing your work. They are considered a way of synthesizing existing knowledge and helping readers understand the issues a study is focusing on. Conceptual frameworks can be built around new ideas, existing viewpoints, or new interpretations of preexisting problems. The purpose of a conceptual framework is to create a structure that maps out interconnected concepts across the investigation.

Conceptual Framework in Research

The conceptual framework can be a confusing component of qualitative research . This term is often incorrectly used interchangeably with a theoretical model . However, the two differ in their basis and extent. A conceptual framework is a broad representation of key concepts and their relationships that researchers develop based on their own experiences, observations, or ideas. It is used to organize and clarify ideas and variables within a study. On the other hand, a theoretical framework is based on established theories or models from prior research studies or academic literature. It provides a lens or perspective through which to view the research problem and guides the selection of research methods, data collection , and analysis. In essence, a conceptual framework is more subjective and developed by the researcher, while a theoretical framework is more objective and grounded in established theories or models. Think of a conceptual framework in research as a bridge that connects the context, theory, and structure of your work. Specifically, you use it to integrate your knowledge of different aspects of an investigation and create a logical tool that shows how various distinct parts are interlinked. Ideally, you will reflect on this part when deliberating on the implications of your results.

Importance of Conceptual Frameworks

Now that you have a clear understanding of what a conceptual framework is in research and its role, it is essential to highlight the significance of conceptual frameworks. Here are some additional points to consider:

Offer a structure to organize your ideas about the research problem and look into your work’s objectives
Help address questions comprehensively by providing a basis for refining your research design and methodology
Function as a frame for choosing suitable techniques to assist in collecting and analyzing data, which directs your focus to relevant information
Act as a system that you use to identify, select, engage with, and integrate appropriate theories and studies
Make your findings understandable and relatable to other works
Keep you on track by simplifying and presenting the association between complex variables
Help conceptualize your position, reflect on how you approach an inquiry, and select relevant methodological direction
Serve as a mechanism for considering and thinking about the significance of your dissertation or thesis and further research in the field.

Types of Conceptual Framework

The different types of conceptual frameworks arise mainly because studies are unique and have various purposes. Scholars usually select the most suitable model based on their hypothesis and objectives. Note that no particular structure is superior to another since each fulfills a specific aim. Here is a list of conceptual framework styles you may be interested in:

Taxonomy Apply this in organizing your concepts logically or classifying relevant elements of a framework.
Conceptual model Is used as the basis for developing a conceptual framework by helping you establish a solid understanding of vital ideas.
Visual representation You can also create a visual map to illustrate how different thoughts are linked together in your work. Consider this as a mind map.
Mathematical description If your focus is on technical subjects such as computer science or mathematics, this one is for you. It allows to explain and gain insights into how mathematical objects or notations are related.
Working hypothesis Used for testing new ideas by focusing your study on specific details.
Descriptive categories Suitable for creating, organizing, and understanding complex systems/problems by dividing them into small units/parts.
Pillar questions Focuses on exploring factors influencing success within organizations.
Practical type Applicable to programming where it helps in developing, managing, and manipulating types such as their hierarchies, how they are related, or safety issues.
Models of operations research Emphasizes the scientific method when approaching research in which facts are established objectively through experimentation and testing.
Formal hypothesis Requires identifying an issue, relevant dependent and independent variables, and controls.

Conceptual Framework Example Diagram

Various sample illustrations can help you in developing your understanding if you need to learn more about how to write a conceptual framework. For instance, you can use a conceptual framework template and fill in your project’s details. This is a quick and effective way of presenting your underlying variables and elements, as well as demonstrating how they are related. Below is an example of a conceptual framework diagram.

How to Create a Conceptual Framework?

After learning the basics of creating a conceptual framework, it is necessary to start developing your own. This should be a straightforward undertaking if you follow the process described here below. Remember that it does not have to look exactly like others because factors such as amount of ideas to be incorporated, your research phenomenon, and the extent of your model must be considered. In this section, we offer a deeper description of how to develop a conceptual framework through a step-by-step process.

1. Determine Key Concepts in Existing Literature

Commence developing a conceptual framework by examining the existing body of literature on your research topic to find key ideas that other researchers have used. Focus on specific factors described in publications that are important for your work or dissertation proposal , what the literature says about them, and how they are related. Also, you should attend to what you read by looking at section’s titles as this helps orient you in a direction of the most essential information. Besides, consider the beginning and end of a study because most authors respectively introduce and summarize important issues in these sections. Additionally, take note of recurring phrases or words in documents because the frequency with which some variables occur demonstrates their relative value and will point you toward that main concept.

2. Come Up With a Research Question

After conducting the literature review, you have insights into the main ideas surrounding your topic. A vital phase of developing your conceptual frame work that follows involves formulating a research question to guide the exploration. You need to be specific here by laying out specific details about the what, who, where, when, how , and why of your theme. Keep in mind that providing concise and defined answers to anything you come up with is essential at this stage. If you cannot address an issue wholly and accurately, create another one. This is important because a problem forms a foundation of the conceptual framework as it influences the selection of appropriate designs and approaches to be used in your work. For example, you can formulate a question such as:

“What is the influence of service quality on service loyalty ?”

Potential methods for a study here may include surveys, questionnaires, and an experiment.

3. Identify Your Independent and Dependent Variables

The next step, as you continue creating a conceptual framework, necessitates identifying your independent and dependent variables . This is usually done after you have explored other studies thoroughly and identified essential concepts for your work. An independent variable is that which you can control, such as “ service quality ” from our previous example. A dependent variable is what you will measure, e.g. “ service loyalty ”. While the two differ, they are related directly because if one changes, the other acts correspondingly. As can be seen, the question formulated earlier determines the ideas selected in this part of developing a research paper , thesis, or dissertation conceptual framework.

4. Create a Model Representing Causal Relationship

Now that you have your essential variables, you must establish how they relate to each other. Note that any direct connection between them does not automatically mean that there is already a cause-and-effect type of association. You should still demonstrate how they affect each other. An effective technique here entails creating a visual representation with an arrow indicating how your ideas interact. This acts as the framework and conceptual map for a study that clarifies how an independent variable causes changes in your dependent variable. A pictorial example of conceptual framework demonstrating a cause-and-effect relationship between service quality and service loyalty is provided below.

Causal relationship between variables in a conceptual framework

5. Include Other Variables

You also need to define other variables and include them in your conceptual framework. After reviewing other studies, you must have encountered numerous concepts that affect your topic. However, since you cannot select all the existing ideas for your research, it is important to focus on the most relevant ones. Additional variables that you should consider include:

Moderating Variables

Moderating variables are those that influence the relationship between your two main variables in the research conceptual framework by altering their strength or direction. They are represented by illustrating when or based on which conditions a certain effect is anticipated. You can use them to reinforce, refute, or influence how your independent construct relates to the dependent one. This helps in determining your findings’ external validity. Using moderating variables is beneficial as they demonstrate the association between different ideas in your topic, enhance your study design, and offer an explanation of why a specific outcome happened. In turn, this provides more accurate and realistic findings by presenting insights into connotations that could otherwise not have been achieved. In our sample of conceptual framework in the research paper, the customer’s income is an example of a moderator variable .

Moderating variable in a conceptual model

Mediating Variables

Mediating variables are also essential in a conceptual framework because they help you understand the mechanism by which your two primary variables are connected. You can either include them in your research design, in which case the study will focus on changing the mediator, or in your findings to explain how a specific effect happened. Mediating variables are usually caused by an independent variable and affect your dependent variable . This enables you to describe the kind of linkage between them. In turn, this contributes to determining the nature of your work more functionally and accurately. Based on our previous question, an example of a mediator in a conceptual framework would be customer satisfaction .

Conceptual framework with a mediating variable

Control variables

You should also consider control variables in your conceptual framework. They allow you to define the factors under your control . These elements may potentially affect your project’s findings. However, they are not very important when developing your model, meaning that you will not be studying them. Control variables have an ability to decrease the impact of other elements outside your work’s scope. This enhances your study’s validity by ensuring that nothing affects the relationship you are examining. As you continue learning about how to make a conceptual framework, remember that these variables are generally kept constant throughout the investigation. You can depict them directly by altering only an independent construct, indirectly through random selection to lessen their influence, or statistically to isolate their effects. An example of a control variable in a conceptual model is a health condition requiring a special diet.

Conceptual framework with a control variable

6. Revise Your Conceptual Framework

Now that you have followed all previous steps, the final phase is to edit and revise your conceptual framework and make any necessary changes. Regardless of how you demonstrate your model, ensure that all variables, including their names, are laid out. Also, make sure that your diagram illustrates connections between concepts using arrows, lines, and boxes. Remember that you should reflect on your research question at this stage as this makes the framework relevant to your topic.

Conceptual Framework Examples

At this point, you have what it takes to prepare your framework. However, you must examine numerous samples concerning your topic since this makes the creation process more accurate and significant. If you still need a better understanding of the entire process of developing a model, look at the following concrete examples of conceptual framework. Example of conceptual framework in research paper

Tips on Developing a Conceptual Framework

Here are extra tips to help you make a conceptual framework:

Keep things simple by avoiding fancy designs during the development process.
Seek feedback and suggestions by sharing your model with the research panel or peers in your field. This leaves room for revisions and improvements based on the response you will get.
Always double-check whether you clearly understand your model’s objective.
Focus on your comprehension of different variables and how they relate to each other during the creation process.
Ensure that all the included concepts are aligned with your work’s aims.

Bottom Line on Conceptual Framework

In this article, you have learned what a conceptual framework is. Defining this term should not be troublesome now. It is a key part of any research study because it helps you articulate your main ideas, their relationship, and why your work is important. The guide also offered an extensive description of this model’s role in research, its structure, and how to write a conceptual framework for your project. You can now start writing to practically secure grasping all the stated points. If you face any difficulties, look at the examples of conceptual framework templates offered here to reinforce your understanding.

If you face any difficulties with creating a conceptual framework for dissertation or any other kind of research, don’t hesitate and ask for help from a team of professional academic writers. Buy dissertations written from scratch and have your study completed by an expert.

FAQ on Conceptual Frameworks

1. what is the purpose of having a conceptual framework.

Use a conceptual framework as:

An analytical tool to examine the state of concepts or variables through research and how they interact.
A guide for identifying your study methodology and hypotheses.
An illustration of your research approach.
A way of generating new interpretations of a topic or concept.
A means for revealing gaps in knowledge.

2. Is a conceptual framework used in qualitative research?

The basic building blocks of a conceptual framework are concepts, not theories, as used in most quantitative studies. Thus, it is common for scholars to use a conceptual framework in qualitative research because of the exploratory nature of these kinds of investigations. Another reason is that a single concept often cannot address a topic fully in these types of inquiries. Therefore, several ideas and empirical evidence must be extracted, relationships among them highlighted, and their relevance to your investigation mentioned.

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How to Make a Conceptual Framework (with Samples)

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about conceptual frameworks, from what they are to how to make your own. Whether you are a novice or an experienced researcher, this article is for you. And by the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of scientific literature and a better grasp of conceptual frameworks.

What is a conceptual framework?

Research is an academic activity that necessitates a significant amount of abstraction or the creation of concepts or ideas in your mind about everything in your surroundings. This activity immerses you in a variety of higher-order thinking processes such as interpretation, criticism, application, and creation at all levels. Research, as a result of mental conceptions and evaluated holistically, must appear understandable to those who are eager to study the research findings. Because of the cognitive character of this scholarly academic task known as research, you will need a specific scheme, thorough plan, or system to describe the components of the research, including the relationships of the research elements.

You must create a conceptual framework for your study if you want to explain the ins and outs of your research in a nutshell. A conceptual framework is a graphical representation of your conceptions or ideas about the fundamental structure or components of your research, as well as the interactions between these pieces. It is a graph or non-prose material, specifically a schematic diagram that depicts well-ordered research elements. A conceptual framework is a comprehensive overview or strategy that gives meaning to your research by providing a well-planned arrangement of the components of your investigation.

Conceptual frameworks, on the other hand, are not usually necessary to be published in scientific publications. Even the average person can make their own. True scientific and authoritative examples, on the other hand, are often found in scientific journals. Furthermore, conceptual frameworks are not created at random by academics. They perform extensive literature evaluations to support their conceptual frameworks, ultimately increasing conceptual framework legitimacy.

Purposes of a Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework illustrates the organization, sequence, and purpose of your research. It is a crucial first step in your research because a schematic diagram, which is also discussed vocally, enables readers to have a general understanding of your work. It describes the research activities you want to conduct, the manner in which you intend to conduct these activities, and the knowledge you possess to demonstrate your expertise with your study topic or research challenge. In a research study, it also serves the goal of illustrating the concepts and their interrelationship.

How to Make a Conceptual Framework?

Before you prepare your conceptual framework, you need to do the following things:

1. Choose your topic

As a researcher, you have the option of focusing on a wide range of topics. However, we must remember that not all of the world’s resources are available to us. The research could also be time-limited. It is therefore important to select a topic that can be completed within the time and resources available.

2. Make your research question

The research question, on the other hand, must be narrowly focused. All of the specifics must be laid out in a clear and concise manner. To put it simply, this is where your conceptual framework comes into play. For your research, you need to come up with a clear and reasonable question. This question should be one you’re really interested in to have a concise conceptual framework.

An important part of your conceptual framework and research is the development of a question that will guide your investigation. As a result, you won’t get lost while writing the paper.

3. Conduct a review of the literature

A review of literature is a process in which a researcher examines previously published work on a particular subject from reputable sources. You and your readers will benefit from a literature review if it reveals the current state of knowledge on your chosen topic, including its strengths and weaknesses. When conducting a literature review, keep in mind that it should be relevant to the topic under consideration, synthesize the findings of the publications you have read, and identify any areas in which additional information or evidence is needed to support the claim under consideration. Having a review of the literature narrows down what you will be putting in your conceptual framework.

4. Choose your variables

Since you have done your research, by this time, you will already be able to identify and pinpoint the variable that has been discussed in the publications you have studied and try to make a connection or decipher how they are linked. As you must have already read a lot of literature, you will find many possible variables to choose from when conducting your study. However, when creating research in general, it is vital that you only select the essential variables as not all of them will be significant; as you must have read much scientific literature, you should be able to discern the important ones by this point. And when creating a conceptual framework in particular, even though you can choose all the variables in the world, it would be best not to since too many variables in a conceptual framework will be confusing. It is also not a good idea to choose too few variables, or else your study might be too simple. As mentioned in the previous step, you have to find the right level of intricacy in your research that will fit your resources and time allocation.

5. Choose your relationships

Now that you have chosen your variables, you have to decide how these variables are related to one another. Given that you have already read much literature on your topic, you should already define how each of your variables is connected. This is especially important to note as this will largely impact how your conceptual framework will look once you start making the diagram.

6. Create the conceptual framework

Now that you have achieved all the previous steps, the final step is to illustrate the diagram. How you demonstrate the diagram will differ on a case-to-case basis. Still, variable names have to be laid out clearly and put into rectangles, variables have to be connected with lines and arrows, and the arrowheads will differ depending on the nature of the relationships. Single-head arrows are for one-directional relationships (i.e. A affects B and B does not affect A), and double-headed arrows are for relationships that are 2-directional (i.e. A affects B and B also affects A). Also, lines do not have to be limited to connecting only 2 variables (i.e. A and B); some relationships can be between more variables (i.e. A affects B and also C).

Tips for Writing a Conceptual Framework

Familiarize yourself with the objective of the conceptual framework.
Create the conceptual framework based on your own knowledge of the components and their interrelationships.
Make sure that everything in the conceptual framework relates back to the study’s stated goals.
Share your conceptual framework with others to solicit feedback and suggestions for development.

Conceptual Framework Examples

To have a clearer idea of the process of making a conceptual framework, let us try to make concrete examples of it.

Background: I am a co-owner of a branch of Burger King.

I am interested to know what affects the satisfaction of our customers. My goal is to know what specific parts of our business can influence our customers’ experience.

The research question I can formulate is “What affects customer satisfaction of Burger King?

I read up on different publications related to food establishments, specifically burger joints, and customer satisfaction. From here, I can already have an idea of the variables I can pinpoint from those publications that have been proven to affect customer satisfaction.

With all the books, scholarly articles, and research I have gone through, it can be determined that there are three main variables: food taste, speed of service, and staff performance. Customers are very much concerned with the taste of the product. The amount of time it takes to serve them also affects how pleased or displeased they are. Lastly, the performance of the staff that serves also affects their experience.

I was able to determine that the three variables: food taste, speed of service, and staff performance, are determining factors of customer satisfaction.

Research Problem of Topic : “Improving Critical Thinking through Systemic Functional Grammar”

Systemic Functional Grammar or SFG is a modern language theory that states that man’s critical thinking increases whenever he uses language for these reasons: first, for ideational function or for knowledge acquisition; second, for interpersonal function or creating human relationships, and third, for textual functions or for strategic and coherent expression of ideas, In this case, the independent variables are the SFG components (ideational, interpersonal, and textual functions) and the dependent variable is critical thinking. Here is the conceptual framework to present the concepts underlying this study. (Ravich & Riggan 2012)

Conceptual Framework vs Theoretical Framework

The conceptual framework shows and illustrates all of your plans, concepts, or ideas regarding the various aspects of your research both graphically and verbally. However, the conceptual framework does not fully and completely explain all of the study’s elements, both concrete and abstract, when seen in such a broad or numerous manner. The theoretical framework, which is a separate section of your research paper, provides and discusses the theories, principles, generalizations, and research findings that are related to your research topic.

The conceptual framework gives readers a clear mental image of the fundamental organization of the study, the relationships between variables, and other relevant facts. Theoretical framework, on the other hand, helps individuals comprehend the relationships between the many research elements and the evidence-based truths, concepts, theories, and assumptions that support each part of the study.

The ability to think clearly and accurately about the many different aspects of your study is facilitated by having a thorough understanding of the theoretical principles governing or controlling those things. As a result, you have a better understanding of both the central issues in your research as well as its other elements. The theoretical framework provides the theoretical underpinnings of the research, while the conceptual framework provides a general sketch of how the research will be conducted using theories, principles, or generalizations that have been supported by facts and logical reasoning.

how do I create a conceptual framework for Logistics management performance and customer service satisfaction

After 1000’s of search trying to understand conceptual frame, your explanations made it so easy for me. Thank you for this useful work put together

thank you for providing such important idea and now i would like to ask one question let my research paper has five chapters so in which chapter will I include my conceptual framework?

Interesting reading

Very useful explanation. Got a point

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How to write conceptual framework section of a proposal template

How to write a conceptual framework section in a proposal template.

The conceptual framework section of a proposal template is an essential component that outlines the theoretical and practical foundation of your research or project. It provides a roadmap for understanding the key concepts, variables, and relationships that will guide your work. Whether you are writing a research proposal, grant proposal , or project proposal , having a well-crafted conceptual framework is crucial for demonstrating the significance and feasibility of your work.

Components of a Conceptual Framework

Introduction: Start by introducing the main problem or issue that your proposal aims to address. Provide a brief overview of the context and background of the problem to set the stage for your conceptual framework.

Key Concepts and Variables: Identify and define the key concepts and variables that are central to your proposal. This could include theoretical constructs, key terms, or specific elements that are essential to understanding your research or project.

Theoretical Underpinnings: Discuss the theoretical framework or theoretical perspectives that underpin your work. This could involve referencing relevant theories, models, or existing literature that inform your approach.

Research Hypotheses or Questions: If applicable, outline the specific research hypotheses or questions that your proposal seeks to address. These should be closely aligned with the key concepts and theoretical framework you have established.

Relationships and Connections: Clearly articulate the relationships and connections between the key concepts and variables in your framework. This could involve visual representations, such as diagrams or models, to illustrate these connections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of proposal templates is a conceptual framework used in.

A conceptual framework is commonly used in research proposals , grant proposals, thesis proposals, and project proposals across various academic and professional disciplines.

How detailed should the conceptual framework be?

The level of detail in a conceptual framework can vary depending on the complexity of the research or project. It should provide sufficient clarity and depth to guide the reader’s understanding without overwhelming them with unnecessary details.

Can a conceptual framework evolve throughout the proposal writing process?

Yes, a conceptual framework is not set in stone and can evolve as your research or project progresses. It is important to continuously review and refine your conceptual framework as new insights emerge or as the scope of your work becomes clearer.

Advice for Writing a Strong Conceptual Framework

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your conceptual framework clear and concise to ensure that it effectively communicates the essential elements of your proposal.

Integrate Relevant Literature: Ground your conceptual framework in existing literature and theory to demonstrate the scholarly foundation of your work.

Seek Feedback: Consider seeking feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues to ensure that your conceptual framework effectively conveys the significance and coherence of your proposal.

By following these guidelines and best practices , you can effectively write a conceptual framework section that strengthens the overall quality and impact of your proposal.

Note: This article provides guidance for writing a conceptual framework section in various proposal templates , including research proposals , grant proposals, and thesis proposals.

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How to Write a Proposal and Conceptual Framework

by Jennifer VanBaren

Published on 26 Sep 2017

Proposals are generally written to solve a problem. A proposal identifies an issue and gives a recommendation to resolve it. Conceptual frameworks are used to help identify the problem by using a broad set of ideas and theories. Writing a proposal using a conceptual framework is often done by researchers to apply for federal grants. Using a conceptual framework with a proposal helps the researcher identify his problem better and find the best solutions. A good proposal has nine elements and begins by stating the problem.

State the problem. The first step in writing a proposal is to provide a clear explanation of the purpose of the project. It includes the problem, an explanation of why the answer to it is important and an explanation of how the results will benefit the community or organization.

Write a literature review. This section of the proposal shows the readers the relevant literature pertaining to this subject. It should contain reliable citations and references offering credibility that the writer of the paper performed the proper research.

Offer your own perspective. The conceptual framework is needed for this section, allowing the researcher to offer his own perspective and inquiries. The conceptual framework takes the writer's ideas and uses them as a guide and map for the proposal. A personal perspective in a proposal of this kind is important and necessary to develop a solution to the proposed problem. This includes an explanation of which theories and concepts are used in the study and how they are relevant.

Offer a clear hypothesis. With a hypothesis, it is important to explain why testing it will be beneficial. It’s also important to offer information regarding the conceptual framework and how it fits into the hypothesis.

Explain your methodology. In the proposal, the methods used for collecting and analyzing data should be revealed. You need to explain what the methods are, why you chose them and why you believe they are valid.

Describe the scope of work. The proposal should state the procedures you will be following along with the sequence of events. A time line is also offered in many proposals that shows the sequence of tasks and the amount of time each will take.

Describe the management plan. This part of the proposal states the people that will be assisting in the project and what responsibilities each person involved will have.

State the qualifications of individuals assisting in the project. It is important to include qualified individuals as part of the project. The proposal should offer the qualifications and experience of each member.

Create a budget that is as accurate and detailed as possible. Proposals are usually written to obtain grant money from the government. The agencies offering the grants want to know exactly why the money is needed and where it will be spent.

IMAGES

Conceptual Framework 101: An Easy Guide
What Is a Conceptual Framework?
Conceptual Framework of the research
Example Of Conceptual Framework In Qualitative Research Proposal
ResearchProposalFramework
Conceptual Framework Schematic Diagram Example In Research

VIDEO

Theoretical Framework vs Conceptual Framework
Part 04: Conceptual Framework (Research Methods and Methodology) By. Dr. Walter
Conceptual Framework| Research
Practical Research 2 Conceptual Framework (in Filipino)
Theoretical Framework
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COMMENTS

What Is a Conceptual Framework?
Developing a conceptual framework in research. Step 1: Choose your research question. Step 2: Select your independent and dependent variables. Step 3: Visualize your cause-and-effect relationship. Step 4: Identify other influencing variables. Frequently asked questions about conceptual models.
PDF CHAPTER CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS IN RESEARCH distribute
an example conceptual framework memo that details how a researcher describes their conceptual framework. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS . IN RESEARCH. A conceptual framework lives at the center of an empirical . study. The conceptual framework serves as a guide and ballast to research (Ravitch & Riggan, 2016), functioning as an integrating
Conceptual Framework: Step-by-Step Guide with Examples
Writing a conceptual framework involves several steps to develop a logical and structured foundation for your dissertation. Discover our step-by-step guide. Step 1. Identification of the research problem. The initial step entails pinpointing the research issue the work intends to address.
How To Make Conceptual Framework (With Examples and Templates)
First, click the Insert tab and select Shapes. You'll see a wide range of shapes to choose from. Usually, rectangles, circles, and arrows are the shapes used for the conceptual framework. Next, draw your selected shape in the document. Insert the name of the variable inside the shape.
How to Write the Conceptual Framework in a Research Proposal
E-book on How to Write the Conceptual Framework in a Research Proposal. To be more effective in addressing the readers' queries, I wrote the e-book titled "Conceptual Framework Development Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide with Five Practical Examples."The e-book is a compilation of all conceptual framework related articles that I previously wrote in this site and other blogging websites.
What is a Conceptual Framework and How to Make It (with Examples)
A conceptual framework in research is used to understand a research problem and guide the development and analysis of the research. It serves as a roadmap to conceptualize and structure the work by providing an outline that connects different ideas, concepts, and theories within the field of study. A conceptual framework pictorially or verbally ...
How to Make a Conceptual Framework (With Examples)
Steps to Developing the Perfect Conceptual Framework. Pick a question. Conduct a literature review. Identify your variables. Create your conceptual framework. 1. Pick a Question. You should already have some idea of the broad area of your research project. Try to narrow down your research field to a manageable topic in terms of time and resources.
Conceptual Framework
A conceptual framework is a structured approach to organizing and understanding complex ideas, theories, or concepts. It provides a systematic and coherent way of thinking about a problem or topic, and helps to guide research or analysis in a particular field. A conceptual framework typically includes a set of assumptions, concepts, and ...
What Is a Conceptual Framework?
A conceptual framework illustrates the expected relationship between your variables. It defines the relevant objectives for your research process and maps out how they come together to draw coherent conclusions. Tip. You should construct your conceptual framework before you begin collecting your data.
Conceptual Framework: 4 Step-by-Step Procedure That Works
Definition of Conceptual Framework. 4 Steps on How to Make the Conceptual Framework. Choose your topic. Do a literature review. Isolate the important variables. Generate the conceptual framework. Example of a Conceptual Framework. Research Topic. Thesis Statement.
What is a good example of a conceptual framework?
There are four major steps researchers will follow to develop a conceptual framework. Each step will be described in detail in the sections that follow. You'll also find examples of how each might be applied in a range of fields. Step 1: Choose the research question. The first step in creating a conceptual framework is choosing a research ...
Conceptual Framework
The development of a conceptual framework begins with a deductive assumption that a problem exists, and the application of processes, procedures, functional approach, models, or theory may be used for problem resolution (Zackoff et al., 2019). The application of theory in traditional theoretical research is to understand, explain, and predict ...
Conceptual Framework ~ How to Develop it for Research
In academic writing, a conceptual framework serves as a key component of the research methodology, providing a schematic representation of the concepts and their proposed relationships. This tool not only guides data collection and interpretation but also clarifies the research question and hypothesis. The conceptual framework aims to make ...
What Is a Conceptual Framework: How to Create It & Examples
If you are reading this, chances are you are engaged in serious research and wondering what a conceptual framework means and why it matters. One of the requirements when conducting a study or preparing a research proposal, whether you are a novice or experienced scholar, is writing a conceptual framework.Therefore, it is essential to have a clear understanding of what a conceptual framework is ...
How to Make a Conceptual Framework (with Samples)
2. Make your research question. The research question, on the other hand, must be narrowly focused. All of the specifics must be laid out in a clear and concise manner. To put it simply, this is where your conceptual framework comes into play. For your research, you need to come up with a clear and reasonable question.
What is a Theoretical Framework? How to Write It (with Examples)
A theoretical framework guides the research process like a roadmap for the study, so you need to get this right. Theoretical framework 1,2 is the structure that supports and describes a theory. A theory is a set of interrelated concepts and definitions that present a systematic view of phenomena by describing the relationship among the variables for explaining these phenomena.
How to Make a Conceptual Framework (With Benefits)
There are various steps you can follow to create a conceptual framework, including: 1. Select a topic. Consider your area of expertise, specialization, interests, and personal goals when selecting a topic. You may outline a list of possible topics before making a final selection.
(Pdf) Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks in Research: Conceptual
conceptual and theoretical frameworks. As conceptual defines the key co ncepts, variables, and. relationships in a research study as a roadmap that outlines the researcher's understanding of how ...
Literature Review and Conceptual Framework: A Guide
A literature review is a critical analysis of existing research on a topic, which helps you identify gaps, contradictions, and opportunities for your own study. A conceptual framework is a ...
How to write conceptual framework section of a proposal template
The conceptual framework section of a proposal template is an essential component that outlines the theoretical and practical foundation of your research or project. It provides a roadmap for understanding the key concepts, variables, and relationships that will guide your work. Whether you are writing a research proposal, grant proposal, or ...
Research Proposal Guides & Resources
Learn how to write a high-quality research proposal for your dissertation, thesis or postgrad research project. Get your proposal started today. About Us; Services. 1-On-1 Coaching. ... Theoretical vs Conceptual Framework What they are & how they're different (with examples)By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | March ...
How to Write a Proposal and Conceptual Framework
A good proposal has nine elements and begins by stating the problem. State the problem. The first step in writing a proposal is to provide a clear explanation of the purpose of the project. It includes the problem, an explanation of why the answer to it is important and an explanation of how the results will benefit the community or organization.