For the theoretical framework, one must consider the following key elements:

1. Identify the appropriate theory/ theories for the given study: Clearly specify the
theoretical perspectives that form the basis of the framework. You may research some related
theories regarding your study. For your study, you may use theories such as social comparison
theory, social exchange theory, or health benefit theory.
2. Explain the chosen theory: Provide concise explanations of the chosen theories. Explain how
these theories are relevant to the research topic and how they help in understanding the
phenomena under investigation.
3. Application to the Research Context: Connect the chosen theories to the specific context of
the research. Describe how the theoretical concepts are translated to the study of patient
satisfaction influenced by student-nurse patient communication and treatment plan complexity.
4. Integration of Theories: Demonstrate how the selected theories work together to provide a
comprehensive understanding of the research topic.
5. Rationale for Theoretical Choices: Provide a brief rationale for why the chosen theories are
suitable for the study.

Provided below is an example of a theoretical framework for the study entitled: Barriers of
Technology Integration in Education
Diffusion of Innovations Theory (Rogers, 1962) constitutes the first pillar of this framework.
This theory posits that the adoption and diffusion of innovations, in this case, educational
technology, are influenced by various factors, including the perceived characteristics of the
innovation and the communication channels through which it spreads. In the context of barriers,
these perceived characteristics may encompass the relative advantage, compatibility, complexity,
and trialability of the technology. The theory allows us to explore how these characteristics
influence educators' decisions to adopt or resist the integration of technology into their teaching
practices, shedding light on the innovation-decision process.
Complementing the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)
by Davis (1989) constitutes the second pillar. TAM focuses on the individual-level factors
influencing the adoption of technology, emphasizing perceived ease of use and perceived
usefulness. Within the framework of technology integration barriers, TAM guides the
examination of educators' attitudes toward technology and how these attitudes shape their
willingness to overcome or succumb to barriers. By considering individual perceptions and
attitudes, TAM enriches the analysis of barriers, offering insights into the micro-level dynamics
influencing technology adoption in educational settings.
The choice of the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model
(TAM) as the theoretical underpinnings for this research on barriers to technology integration in
education is deliberate and strategic. The Diffusion of Innovations Theory offers a macro-level
perspective, allowing us to examine how systemic factors influence the adoption of educational
technology across educational settings. By exploring the perceived characteristics of innovations
and the communication channels through which they spread, this theory provides insights into
the overarching dynamics of technology adoption. Complementing this, the Technology
Acceptance Model delves into the micro-level, focusing on individual attitudes and perceptions
that shape educators' willingness to adopt technology.