Some of researchers may use conceptual framework and theoretical framework interchangeably. A conceptual framework is the researcher’s way on how the research problem will have to be explored. Its purpose is to clarify concepts and propose relationships among the concepts in a survey.

Theoretical framework is a wider scale of resolution since it an explanation of a phenomenon and it relates to the tested theories.

Some of researchers may use conceptual framework and theoretical framework interchangeably. A conceptual framework is the researcher’s way on how the research problem will have to be explored. Its purpose is to clarify concepts and propose relationships among the concepts in a survey.

Theoretical framework is a wider scale of resolution since it an explanation of a phenomenon and it relates to the tested theories.

In theoretical framework, the author gives an explanation of all the possible related theories of phenomenon (investigated topic). However, the conceptual framework explains what the author actually wanted to test or investigated. An analytical framework, explains the methods through which the author derived the related results. So, all three should be included in the PhD dissertation.

A conceptual framework is the researcher’s idea on how the research problem will have to be explored. This is founded on the theoretical framework, which lies on a much broader scale of resolution. 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 conceptual framework, on the other hand, embodies the specific direction by which the research will have to be undertaken. An analytical framework describes the conceptual system of definitions and classifications of the related data.

An analytical framework is composed of five major components: an assortment of tools, a set of useful solution patterns, one or more model forms, multiple research techniques and skills, and methods for grouping complex information

The theoretical framework - we'll present theories and ideas exist regarding the topic which we present in our dissertation.

Zeeshan:

You have hit on distinctions that are often confusing. They are confusing because different fields use them in different ways. Scholars also often use them in vague ways, assuming definitions that often do not have agreement within and across fields.

Part of the issue surrounds the level of analysis the framework is being used. Frameworks change as one moves from a micro (individual study) to the macro (big theory books) level. Please note, I use pragmatism as my philosophy of science, therefore, I see these frameworks as tools to achieve objectives (that could be concrete or abstract). A map is a useful metaphor. A map helps one navigate a terrain, it should be judged by how well it gets the job done (help the user reach the destination). It is not reality, it is not meant to be reality, rather a tool that helps one to navigate real spaces.

The conceptual frameworks I have worked with most closely might be called micro conceptual frameworks. This is the framework that is closest to the data in an empirical study. It could be a set of hypotheses or descriptive categories.

Now these hypotheses come from other theoretical frameworks that are at broader levels of analysis. These frameworks are found in the literature and often provide a justification for the set of hypotheses.

I have written a great deal about these frameworks. See the articles I referred to in the other post. I am repeating them here because others do not have immediate access to these references.

Article Pragmatism as a philosophy of science: A tool for public adm...

Chapter Public Administration Methodology: A Pragmatic Perspective

Book A Playbook for Research Methods: Integrating Conceptual Fram...

Article Intermediate Theory: The Missing Link to Successful Student ...

The ability to navigate the different levels of analysis and terminology is challenging. That is one reason I like to begin at the micro framework level (individual study) and move outward. The level of analysis is clear.

See the above references. The most sophisticated discussion of conceptual frameworks is found in the 2017 book chapter (which was co-authored by a PhD student) and the most complete and detailed discussion is found in the Playbook. As you can see the words "conceptual framework" are in the title.

I hope you find this helpful. Pat Shields

The following sources should be helpful:

• Gale, N. K., Heath, G., Cameron, E., Rashid, S. and Redwood, S. (2013). Using the framework method for the analysis of qualitative data in multi-disciplinary health research. BMC medical research methodology, 13, 117, pp. 1-8.
• Imenda, S. (2014). Is there a conceptual difference between theoretical and conceptual frameworks? Journal of Social Science, 38, 2, pp. 185-195.
• 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.
• Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2009). Research Methods for Business Students, Harlow, England, Pearson Education Limited.
• 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
• What is an analytical framework?: https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_is_an_analytical_framework

Kindly read my attached work. Best regards

Theoretical framework has to do with theories that can be used to explain variables in your own study. Concetual framework simply explains how variables in the study are linked with one another or directly with the dependent variable(s). Analytic framework explains how results of study are connected to explain problm of study

Dear Zeeshan,

A conceptual framework (CF) contains higher abstraction level than theoretical framework (TF). CF is researcher’s own understanding about the phenomenon whereas TF is well grounded in theories with clear direction of relationships among variables. TF are tested and validated through various statistical tests whereas CF are tested and challenged through theoretical assumptions. CF is the starting point of a qualitative study and TF is the outcome of that study. Whereas TF is the starting point of a quantitative study which is accepted or rejected based on the data and statistical tests.

For analytical framework, read following thread

https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_is_an_analytical_framework

The following should be helpful (useful)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozbRceYiEM4

https://college-college-life.knoji.com/what-is-the-difference-between-the-theoretical-framework-and-the-conceptual-framework/

https://www.academia.edu/14204272/DISTINGUISHION_BETWEEN_A_THEORETICAL_FRAMEWORK_AND_A_CONCEPTUAL_FRAMEWORK_IN_RESEARCH

May be I am not sure of the definitions :

Analytical : Is about mathematical models

Conceptual : Overview or class of association

Theoretical : Base to justify the idea and its relevance so far ...

Thanks for sharing the question. I could recommend your question, but I could not recommend some of the answers. Do you face such problem?

Regarding your research question, let me bring some related research question where I have taken part in some of them. There are good answers and fine resources were brought.

https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_are_the_roles_differences_and_similarities_between_theoretical_framework_and_conceptual_framework_in_research

https://www.researchgate.net/post/Theoretical_framework_and_conceptual_framework_Are_they_same_thing_or_different

https://www.researchgate.net/post/Can_anyone_explain_how_to_understand_between_theoretical_framework_and_conceptual_framework

https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_is_the_difference_between_Theoretical_Framework_and_Conceptual_Framework

https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_is_the_difference_between_Conceptual_Framework_Conceptual_Framework_Research_Framework_and_Theoretical_Framework

https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_is_the_difference_between_theoretical_framework_and_conceptual_framework

https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_are_the_differences_between_conceptual_framework_and_theoretical_framework

Theoretical framework is a must for every of our action & especially in academic areas & the research process . As we know this is applicable & so to say starts with the mathematical process to be carried out in the physical & scientific line of action .With this process any academic pursuit start with bringing with us new line of framework .

Analytical Framework should be undertaken with all the framework which we are undertaking to clear the very concept of carrying out the process of our action in any areas including our research program for which analytical framework which has is roots with our mind frame work to offer us the period light for our action, study ,& the research part of our program .

With this Conceptual framework has its roots in original thoughts which is the basic end of our starting process of understanding & completing for which we required full details for our planned action which has once again its roots in our mind .For mind correlates with our thought & action & in this line for carrying something new for our action including our research program ,Analytical,Theoretical ,& conceptual frame of mind remain the very basic purpose for completing our action & planned program .

This is my personal opinion

I agree and recommend the answer of Dr. Mahfuz Judeh

hi

Framework can be derived from related concepts (conceptual) or existing theories (theoretical). The terms conceptual framework and theoretical framework are sometimes used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. ... The theory provides a point of focus for attacking the unknown in a specific area

I believe any research include all the terms what you mentioned/used.

In the beginning you have to select a concept then make a report. Later search for the available theoretical resources. Finally do your work, analyze and interpret the results that outcome become your dissertation.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK• The theory provides a point of focus for attacking the unknown in a specific area.• If a relationship is found between two or more variables a theory should be formulated to explain why the relationship exists.• Theories are purposely created and formulated, never discovered; they can be tested but never proven.

Conceptual Framework• This consists of concepts that are placed within a logical and sequential design.• represents less formal structure and used for studies in which existing theory is inapplicable or insufficient.• based on specific concepts and propositions, derived from empirical observation and intuition.• may deduce theories from a conceptual framework.

Usually, research topics are hinged on theories that could explain the phenomenon while conceptual framework is the researcher's explanation of the link between theories and the gap of knowledge intended to be filled in the research.

Analytical framework refers to the methods intended by the researcher to carryout the research. This is peculiar to philosophical research.

Dear Zeeshan,

Thanks for asking such a good questions. Kindly find attached two papers; one is about the conceptual framework and the other is about the theoretical framework. I think these two papers would help you differentiate between the two. I hope this helps.

Best regards,

Abdelhamid

Many researchers consider theoretical framework and conceptual framework as two sides of the same coins. However, there is a notable difference between the two concepts as mentioned by our colleagues in their above comments. Analytical framework could be the method used to analyze research data.

I do agree with the above-mentioned answers by colleagues and recommend the explanation of Mr. Sayed Irshad Hussain.

Please see the following paper

Article THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK: MANDATORY INGREDIENTS ...

Best Regards Zeeshan Hamid

Researchers use the theoretical framework to explain the related theories adopted for their theses alongside the conceptual framework through which they show the area of investigation. An analytical framework is used to drive the final statistical results.

This interesting article belongs to this thread.

Is There a Conceptual Difference between Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks?

This is an opinion piece on the subject of whether or not ‘theoretical’ and ‘conceptual’ frameworks are conceptual synonyms, or they refer to different constructs. Although, generally, a lot of literature uses these two terms interchangeably – suggesting that they are conceptually equivalent, the researcher argues that these are two different constructs – both by definition and as actualised during the research process. Thus, in this paper, the researcher starts by developing his argument by examining the role of theory in research, and then draws a distinction between areas of research that typically follow deductive versus inductive approaches, with regard to both the review of literature and data collection. The researcher then subsequently argues that whereas a deductive approach to literature review typically makes use of theories and theoretical frameworks, the inductive approach tends to lead to the development of a conceptual framework – which may take the form of a (conceptua l) model. Examples depicting this distinction are advanced...

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/4b40/2748598965cf7618a6a7ba7f416782f27ca2.pdf

I follow answers

regards

Dear,

The conceptual framework is to define the terms and fix their general dimensions so as not to contradict them later.

Theoretical framework. Dimensions of the subject and the submission of historical studies in this area. Put forward hypotheses ideas previous studies.

Analytical Framework.

1. Either theoretical intersection of ideas with each other and try to reach a broader and deeper concept or reach logical results.

2 or the analysis after the applied field study. And subject the theoretical to what is actually. Here is a systematic analysis and trial of what was written in conceptual and theoretical.

It may reach the stage of science in the case of proving new hypotheses or theories or methods. While in the theoretical and conceptual framework remains cognitive words hypothetical intellectual and mental.