Dear Experts
I have seen number of studies using Theoretical Framework and Conceptual Framework terms. What is/are the foundational or principle difference/s between these two and when one should use the term Theoretical Framework and Conceptual Framework?
Thanks
A conceptual framework is the researcher’s idea on how the research problem will have to be explored. The conceptual framework, on the other hand, embodies the specific direction by which the research will have to be undertaken. Statistically speaking, the conceptual framework describes the relationship between specific variables identified in the study. It also outlines the input, process and output of the whole investigation. The conceptual framework is also called the research paradigm.
The theoretical framework dwells on time tested theories that embody the findings of numerous investigations on how phenomena occur. The theoretical framework provides a general representation of relationships between things in a given phenomenon.
The elaborations/discussions as per the following papers/link should be helpful:
- Grant, C. and Osanloo, A. (2016). 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, pp. 12-26.
- Green, H. (2014). The Use of Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks in Qualitative Research. Nurse Researcher, 21, 6, pp. 34-38.
- Jabareen, Y. (2009). Building a Conceptual Framework: Philosophy, Definitions, and Procedure. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 8, 4, pp. 49-62.
- Leshem, S. and Trafford, V. (2007). Overlooking the conceptual framework. Innovations in education and Teaching International, 44, 1, pp. 93-105.
- Rocco, T. S. and Plakhotnik, M. S. (2009). Literature reviews, conceptual frameworks, and theoretical frameworks: Terms, functions, and distinctions. Human Resource Development Review, 8, 1, pp. 120-130.
- Sinclair, M. (2007). A guide to understanding theoretical and conceptual frameworks. Evidence Based Midwifery, 5, 2, pp. 39.
- What are the differences between conceptual framework and theoretical framework?: https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_are_the_differences_between_conceptual_framework_and_theoretical_framework
Although you may find some scholars will try to make a difference, but actually there is no difference except in the name. This answer was confirmed from one of the famous theorist.
I have read a lot about this question. I want to share what I have understood. the theoretical framework is mainly the theories that a researcher is going to use in his research. the conceptual framework is how the researcher will use different variable to conduct his research. the conceptual framework is mainly what the research will use in terms of variables and how these variables react together in his research. this is my own understanding. It could not be the right explanation of the differences but this is what I understood. Any other opinions will be useful for all
A conceptual framework is the researcher’s idea on how the research problem will have to be explored. The conceptual framework, on the other hand, embodies the specific direction by which the research will have to be undertaken. Statistically speaking, the conceptual framework describes the relationship between specific variables identified in the study. It also outlines the input, process and output of the whole investigation. The conceptual framework is also called the research paradigm.
The theoretical framework dwells on time tested theories that embody the findings of numerous investigations on how phenomena occur. The theoretical framework provides a general representation of relationships between things in a given phenomenon.
Mr Muayyad Ahmed, can you specify the name of theorist and its reference, please!
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