Conceptual & Theoretical

frameworks
 Conceptual framework
• Concept: an abstract or general idea inferred or
derived from specific instances
• A word or phrase that symbolizes several
interrelated ideas
• Unlike a theory, a concept does not need to be
discussed to be understood.
• Conceptualization: inventing or contriving an idea or
explanation.
• An abstract, simplified view of the world that we
wish to present for some purpose
• Assist researcher in organising her thinking.
• It explains the relationship among interlinked
concepts.
• Explains the possible connection between
variables
• To come up with an effective conceptual
framework: analyze a set of broad ideas &
principles taken from relevant fields of enquiry
 Theoretical framework
• Collection of interrelated ideas based on
theories.
• It accounts explains phenomena.
• Clarify why things are the way they are based
on theories.
• To understand theoretical frameworks an
analysis of theories has to be made.
 Theories in Research
• Theory: reasoned statement or groups of statements,
which are supported by evidence, meant to explain
phenomena.
• Provide a generalized explanation to an occurrence.
• When theory fails to be supported by data, it can be
rejected, or revised.
• Theories provide indicators of what is incorporated in a
theoretical framework
• Provide tentative theoretical answers to questions,
issues, problems before researcher practically confirms
thru research that they are correct
Importance of Theoretical frameworks
• Enables the researcher to understand total
realm of problem.
• Helps the research to acknowledge the
problem from a wider perspective & not from
a narrow personalized self-interest
approach__hence enhances objectivity.
 Challenges in Formulation of theoretical
frameworks
• Lack of differentiation btw theory & a
theoretical f/work.
• Theory simply states what proponents have
discovered in relation to an issue.
• A theoretical f/work uses this theory to account
for & clarify why things are the way they are.
• Thus avoid simply stating the theories
applicable to the study.
 Relationship btw Conceptual & theoretical
f/works
• Both are tools to assist in making meaningful findings.
• A conceptual f/work is based on ideas that may be
formulated from researcher’s own perception. E.g. From
observation or experience
• A theoretical f/work is based on recognized theories.
• A conceptual f/work cannot be refuted or tested through
research.
• A theoretical f/work is testable & can be rejected or revised.
• A theoretical f/work is a discussion of related theories
attempting to predict a phenomenon while a conceptual
f/work is an idea stated.