Suits research exploring:• Changing behaviours within health contexts to address patient and carer practices• Changing behaviours regarding environmental concerns• Barriers and enablers to behaviour/ practice/ implementation• Intervention planning and implementation• Post-evaluation• Promoting physical activity
As discussed in Chapter 3, qualitative research is not an absolute science. While not all research may need a framework or theory (particularly descriptive studies, outlined in Chapter 5), the use of a framework or theory can help to position the research questions, research processes and conclusions and implications within the relevant research paradigm. Theories and frameworks also help to bring to focus areas of the research problem that may not have been considered.
Qualitative Research – a practical guide for health and social care researchers and practitioners Copyright © 2023 by Tess Tsindos is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.
Dr Deborah Gabriel
I previously delivered this presentation to final year undergraduate students about to embark on their dissertation projects – but developed this guide while undertaking my PhD.
Whether you are writing a 2000-word literature review for an undergraduate dissertation or something closer to 10,000-words for a PhD thesis, the process is the same.
I recently delivered this presentation to final year undergraduate students about to embark on their dissertation projects.
The most important task that you will undertake in your PhD research project is the analysis of data. The integrity and rigour of your research is utterly dependent on getting the analysis right and it will be intensely scrutinised by the external examiners.
I only wish I knew as much as you in this area. You have made it very easy to follow and understand. I am starting a project, but just don't know how to get started…very frustrating. You are truely blessed with your gift.
Dear Dawn, my ‘gift’ is my passion for research that contributes to social change, and while research can be complex and challenging – if you pick a topic you are really interested in, you will be highly motivated to overcome any problems that may arise. The key to starting a project is very careful planning from the outset. Ask yourself the question: what are my research aims and objectives? This should then point you towards methodology and determining the most appropriate research methods for your project. Best of Luck!
Dear Dr. Deborah,
I am an Ed.D student and have just started working on my thesis. I have been first struggling with the research question, though I know what I want to work on, there are several factors that arise in the event, that requires one to reframe and rephrase the research question. I am from Singapore, my research interest is in quality assurance in higher education and I am examining it from my institution’s perspective. My research question is “How a quality assurance process transformed an art school to one of a tertiary level, a phenomenological study through staff experience.” As you can see I decided to use phenomenology as a methodology and the method will be interviews of staff. But then I am stuck with so many other questions, first about my research question, next the conceptual framework or theories to support….
Madam, I realy appreciate your constructive idea , you clearly made a good and reasonable differences between inductive research approach and deductive research approach. Big up once again.
Okay I got this.
Thank you. I am refining my thesis proposal and your explanation made clear again how to stay focused, clear and precise.
Thanks so much for explaining the things I could not put into perspective.
Thank you Deborah I also wish l had in-depth on research. My wish is to uproot the carnage on south African roads. This has helped me shape up my research proposal in Professional Development course . Regards
Thanks so much. Your information is very informative and helpful.
Thank you so much. I need to learn a lot from u
precise and useful
Hi Deborah, Thank you for sharing this, I would greatly appreciate if you could elaborate more on Research Paradigm (as stated in slide no 6/10). Transformative Emancipatory Paradigm Interpretive paradigm Critical Paradigm.
Your reply is highly appreciated thanks
Hi Yusuf, glad the slides have been useful for you. I strongly recommend that you read this book as it will provide in-depth overview on the Transformative Emancipatory Paradigm and Critical Paradigm. Essentially, both are concerned with giving voice to marginalised groups and changing the balance of power in research. Truman, C., Mertens, D.M. and Humphries, B. eds., 2000. Research and inequality. Psychology Press.
The Interpretative Research Paradigm is a qualitative approach that aims to understand the world through the subjective experience of individuals. I recommend this book for in-depth reading on the subject:
Schwartz-Shea, P. and Yanow, D., 2013. Interpretive research design: Concepts and processes. Routledge.
Dr. Gabriel,
Thank you so much for providing your thoughts for all to be supported in working through our research. I have been out of the classroom for quite some time and just now beginning work on my dissertation proposal. Your straightforward slides made it very easy for my brain to reengage the material in a more useful way than I ever did in the classroom. I have shared your website with my colleagues who are also working on completing their doctorates.
Additionally, I am hearing about the Transformative Emancipatory Paradigm and Black Feminist Standpoint Theory for the first time from you. I am using Critical Race Theory as one of my theoretical frameworks and it seems these other two aspects will be essential to consider as well. Thank you so much for providing the resources to Yusuf and in turn the rest of us by replying to comments.
Your work is incredibly helpful and valuable, thank you again!
With gratitude,
Molly O. Kennedy
Thanks so much for your comments Molly – I’m glad my posts have been useful for you – good luck with your dissertation!
Hi Deborah, I am currently doing an exploratory research topic on The impact of democracy on state relations in the International System with a case study of the European Union. It looks at using a regional bloc- the EU as a tool for fostering democracy globally. I was wondering if it would be possible to carry out data analysis using only secondary sources (qualitative) given that I live in a non-EU country which limits my use of primary research methods. And If possible I would like to know how this caan be done.
Dear Deborah Thank you for this helpful post – I am currently writing my master thesis and this provide some needed guidance. Best from Switzerland
Hi Deborah, how was ur day? I wish u all the best. Deborah I’m trying to do my MA thesis, and all informations those I got from u, adds something on my knowledge. thanks alot!
Thank you Dr Deborah, completely this article is helped me!
It’s great to read to sharpen the knowledge and your presentation satisfies my thirsty mind. Lot of thanks for your kind efforts to enrich anyone who wants to be served with your contribution.
You’re very welcome – it’s always a pleasure to support enquiring minds in this way!
Hi Deborah Thank you for your nice and helpful post – this will help me and my student also. Best from Bangladesh.
Need help to develop a conceptual frame work for my PhD proposal. I have struggled for two months and has failed to come up with objectives and conceptual frame work. My topic is “COMMUNICATION PATTERNS OF ADULT-CHILDREN RAISED BY SINGLE PARENTS IN THE POST CONFLICT REGION “. The idea is about post war children raised by single parents. I could post details of what I scripted on you mail if accepted. I will be grateful for you help.
Efiti Filliam -Uganda
Hello Deborah. I would love more explanation on creating the conceptual framework itself. I am a PhD student and at the stage where I have to create a conceptual model of my ideas. However, I am having some difficulties achieving this. My study is purely qualitative.
Hi Kelvin, one you have determined the area of enquiry, your aims and objectives for the research, the most appropriate conceptual approach should jump out you. It might be a singular framework or more commonly a combination of complementary approaches. Maybe you can play around with mind maps to help you work through this stage?
I’m so glad I found you. Your explanations are concise and easy to understand.
I am so happy. Thanks for your help and support. I feel like I am in a class room.
Comments are closed.
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 #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.
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)
You can develop this through the researcher’s specific concept in the study. | Purely based on existing theories. |
The research problem is backed up by existing knowledge regarding things the researcher wants us to discover about the topic. | The research problem is supported using past relevant theories from existing literature. |
Based on acceptable and logical findings. | It is established with the help of the research paradigm. |
It emphasizes the historical background and the structure to fill in the knowledge gap. | A general set of ideas and theories is essential in writing this area. |
It highlights the fundamental concepts characterizing the study variable. | It emphasizes the historical background and the structure to fill the knowledge gap. |
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.
The conceptual framework has different types based on how the research concepts are organized 1 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Consider analyzing if other variables can affect the relationship between your independent and dependent variables 3 .
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.
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.
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:
Presented below is the IPO model for our example above.
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:
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
The research study’s conceptual framework is in Chapter 2, following the Review of Related Literature.
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.
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.
Written by Jewel Kyle Fabula
in Career and Education , Juander How
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.
Browse all articles written by Jewel Kyle Fabula
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For all empirical research, you must choose a conceptual or theoretical framework to “frame” or “ground” your study. Theoretical and/or conceptual frameworks are often difficult to understand and challenging to choose which is the right one (s) for your research objective (Hatch, 2002). Truthfully, it is difficult to get a real understanding of what these frameworks are and how you are supposed to find what works for your study. The discussion of your framework is addressed in your Chapter 1, the introduction and then is further explored through in-depth discussion in your Chapter 2 literature review.
“Theory is supposed to help researchers of any persuasion clarify what they are up to and to help them to explain to others what they are up to” (Walcott, 1995, p. 189, as cited in Fallon, 2016). It is important to discuss in the beginning to help researchers “clarify what they are up to” and important at the writing stage to “help explain to others what they are up to” (Fallon, 2016).
What is the difference between the conceptual and the theoretical framework?
Often, the terms theoretical framework and conceptual framework are used interchangeably, which, in this author’s opinion, makes an already difficult to understand idea even more confusing. According to Imenda (2014) and Mensah et al. (2020), there is a very distinct difference between conceptual and theoretical frameworks, not only how they are defined but also, how and when they are used in empirical research.
Imenda (2014) contends that the framework “is the soul of every research project” (p.185). Essentially, it determines how the researcher formulates the research problem, goes about investigating the problem, and what meaning or significance the research lends to the data collected and analyzed investigating the problem.
Very generally, you would use a theoretical framework if you were conducting deductive research as you test a theory or theories. “A theoretical framework comprises the theories expressed by experts in the field into which you plan to research, which you draw upon to provide a theoretical coat hanger for your data analysis and interpretation of results” (Kivunja, 2018, p.45 ). Often this framework is based on established theories like, the Set Theory, evolution, the theory of matter or similar pre-existing generalizations like Newton’s law of motion (Imenda, 2014). A good theoretical framework should be linked to, and possibly emerge from your literature review.
Using a theoretical framework allows you to (Kivunja, 2018):
According to Mensah et al.(2020) the theoretical framework for your research is not a summary of your own thoughts about your research. Rather, it is a compilation of the thoughts of giants in your field, as they relate to your proposed research, as you understand those theories, and how you will use those theories to understand the data collected.
Additionally, Jabareen (2009) defines a conceptual framework as interlinked concepts that together provide a comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon. “A conceptual framework is the total, logical orientation and associations of anything and everything that forms the underlying thinking, structures, plans and practices and implementation of your entire research project” (Kivunja, 2018, p. 45). You would largely use a conceptual framework when conducting inductive research, as it helps the researcher answer questions that are core to qualitative research, such as the nature of reality, the way things are and how things really work in a real world (Guba & Lincoln, 1994).
Some consideration of the following questions can help define your conceptual framework (Kinvunja, 2018):
Examples of conceptual frameworks include the definitions a sociologist uses to describe a culture and the types of data an economist considers when evaluating a country’s industry. The conceptual framework consists of the ideas that are used to define research and evaluate data. Conceptual frameworks are often laid out at the beginning of a paper or an experiment description for a reader to understand the methods used (Mensah et al., 2020).
You do not need to reinvent the wheel, so to speak. See what theoretical and conceptual frameworks are used in the really robust research in your field on your topic. Then, examine whether those frameworks would work for you. Keep searching for the framework(s) that work best for your study. |
Writing it up
After choosing your framework is to articulate the theory or concept that grounds your study by defining it and demonstrating the rationale for this particular set of theories or concepts guiding your inquiry. Write up your theoretical perspective sections for your research plan following your choice of worldview/ research paradigm. For a quantitative study you are particularly interested in theory using the procedures for a causal analysis. For qualitative research, you should locate qualitative journal articles that use a priori theory (knowledge that is acquired not through experience) that is modified during the process of research (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). Also, you should generate or develop a theory at the end of your study. For a mixed methods study which uses a transformative (critical theoretical lens) identify how the lens specifically shapes the research process.
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2 018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage.
Fallon, M. (2016). Writing up quantitative research in the social and behavioral sciences. Sense. https://kean.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=cookie,ip,url,cpid&custid=keaninf&db=nlebk&AN=1288374&site=ehost-live&scope=site&ebv=EB&ppid=pp_C1
Guba, E. G., & Lincoln, Y. S. (1994). Competing paradigms in qualitative research. Handbook of Qualitative Research, 2 (163-194), 105.
Hatch, J. A. ( 2002). Doing qualitative research in education settings. SUNY Press.
Imenda, S. (2014). Is there a conceptual difference between theoretical and conceptual frameworks? Journal of Social Sciences, 38 (2), 185-195.
Jabareen, Y. (2009). Building a conceptual framework: Philosophy, definitions, and procedure. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 8 (4), 49-62.
Kivunja, C. ( 2018, December 3). Distinguishing between theory, theoretical framework, and conceptual framework. The International Journal of Higher Education, 7 (6), 44-53. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1198682.pdf
Mensah, R. O., Agyemang, F., Acquah, A., Babah, P. A., & Dontoh, J. (2020). Discourses on conceptual and theoretical frameworks in research: Meaning and implications for researchers. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 4 (5), 53-64.
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Updated 23 Jul 2024
Students in social sciences frequently seek to understand how people feel, think, and behave in specific situations or relationships that evolve over time. To achieve this, they employ various techniques and data collection methods in qualitative research allowing for a deeper exploration of human experiences. Participant observation, in-depth interviews, and other qualitative methods are commonly used to gather rich, detailed data to uncover key aspects of social behavior and relationships. What is qualitative research? This article will answer this question and guide you through the essentials of this methodology, including data collection techniques and analytical approaches.
This inquiry method is helpful for learners interested in how to conduct research . It focuses on understanding human behavior, experiences, and social phenomena from the perspective of those involved. What does qualitative mean? It uses non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and textual analysis, to understand people’s feelings, thoughts, and actions.
Qualitative analysis is crucial in education, healthcare, social sciences, marketing, and business. It helps gain detailed insights into behaviors, experiences, and cultural phenomena. This approach is fundamental during exploratory phases, for understanding complex issues, and when context-specific insights are required. By focusing on depth over breadth, this approach is often employed when researchers seek to explore complex issues, understand the context of a phenomenon, or investigate things that are not easily quantifiable. It uncovers rich, nuanced data essential for developing theories and evaluating programs.
Now that you know the answer to “Why is qualitative data important?”, let’s consider how this method differs from quantitative. Both studies represent two main types of research methods. The qualitative approach focuses on understanding behaviors, experiences, and perspectives using interviews, observations, and analyzing texts. These studies are based on reflexivity and aim to explore complexities and contexts, often generating new ideas or theories. Researchers analyze data to find patterns and themes, clarifying the details. However, findings demonstrated in the results section of a research paper may not apply broadly because they often use small, specific groups rather than large, random samples.
Quantitative studies, on the other hand, emphasize numerical data and statistical analysis to measure variables and relationships. They use methods such as surveys, experiments, or analyzing existing data to collect structured information. The goal is quantifying phenomena, testing hypotheses, and determining correlations or causes. Statistical methods are used to analyze data, identifying patterns and significance. Quantitative studies produce results that can be applied to larger populations, providing generalizable findings. However, they may lack the detailed context that qualitative methods offer.
To better understand the answer to “What is qualitative research?”, it’s necessary to consider various approaches within this methodology, each with its unique focus, implications, and functions.
This theory aims to understand and describe the lived experiences of individuals regarding a particular phenomenon.
Peculiarities:
Example: Studying the experiences of people living with chronic illness to understand how it affects their daily lives.
The approach involves immersive, long-term observation and participation in particular cultural or social contexts.
Example: Observing and participating in the daily life of a rural village to understand its social structure and cultural practices.
This approach seeks to develop a research paper problem statement and theories based on participant data.
Example: Developing a theory on how people cope with job loss by interviewing and analyzing the experiences of unemployed individuals.
Case studies involve an in-depth examination of a single case or a small number of cases.
Example: One of the qualitative research examples is analyzing a specific company’s approach to innovation to understand its success factors.
This methodology focuses on the stories and personal interpretations of individuals.
Example: Collecting and analyzing the life stories of veterans to understand their experiences during and after military service.
This theoretical model involves a collaborative approach in which researchers and participants work together to solve a problem or improve a situation.
Example: Teachers collaborating with researchers to develop and test new teaching approaches to improve student engagement.
It examines language use in texts, conversations, and other forms of communication.
Example: Analyzing political speeches to understand how leaders construct and convey their messages to the public.
Each of these examples of qualitative research offers unique tools and perspectives, enabling researchers to delve deeply into complex issues and gain a rich understanding of the issue they study.
Various techniques exist to explore phenomena in depth and understand the complexities of human behavior, experiences, and social interactions. Some key methodologies that are commonly used in different sciences include several approaches.
These are informal and open-ended, designed to capture detailed narratives without imposing preconceived notions. Researchers typically start with a broad question and encourage interviewees to share their stories freely.
They involve a core set of questions that allow researchers to explore topics deeply, adapting their inquiries based on responses received. This method of qualitative research design aims to gather rich, descriptive information, such as understanding what qualities make a good teacher.
They differ from closed-ended surveys in that they seek opinions and descriptions through open-ended questions. They allow for gathering diverse viewpoints from a larger group than one-on-one interviews would permit.
It relies on researchers' skills to observe and interpret unbiased behaviors or activities. For instance, in education research, observation might track how students stay focused and manage distractions, recorded through field notes taken during or shortly after the observation.
This involves participants or researchers documenting daily activities or study contexts. Participants might record their social interactions or exercise routines, giving detailed data for later analysis. Researchers may also maintain diaries to document study contexts, helping to explain findings and other information sources.
All types of qualitative research have their strengths for gathering detailed information and exploring the social, cultural, and psychological aspects of exploration topics. Learners often use several methods (triangulation) to confirm their findings and deepen their understanding of complex subjects. If you need assistance choosing the most appropriate method to explore, feel free to contact our website, as we offer essays for sale and support with academic papers.
This approach has unique strengths, making it valuable in many sciences. One of the primary advantages of qualitative research is its ability to capture participants' voices and perspectives accurately. It is highly adaptable, allowing researchers to modify the technique as new questions and ideas arise. This flexibility allows researchers to investigate new ideas and trends without being limited to set methods from the start. While this approach has many strengths, it also has significant drawbacks. A research paper writer faces practical and theoretical limitations when analyzing and interpreting data. Let’s consider all the pros and cons of this methodology in detail.
So, qualitative methodology offers significant benefits, such as adaptability, real-world context, rich insights, and fostering innovation. However, it also presents challenges like unpredictability, bias, limited applicability, or time- and labor-intensive. Understanding these pros and cons helps researchers make informed decisions about when and how to effectively utilize various types of qualitative research designs in their studies.
Qualitative research provides a valuable understanding of complicated human experiences and social situations, making it a strong tool in various areas of study. Despite its challenges, such as unreliability, subjectivity, and limited generalizability, its strengths in flexibility, natural settings, and generating meaningful insights make it an essential approach. If you are one of the students looking to incorporate qualitative methodology into their academic papers, EduBirdie is here to help. Our experts can guide you through the process, ensuring your work is thorough, credible, and impactful.
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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.
hole come together and build on and into each other. Ideally, a conceptual framework helps you become more discerning and selective in terms of methods, grounding theories, and. pproaches to your research (Ravitch & Riggan, 2016).Collaboration is a horizontal value in qualitative research, and we strongly cri-tique.
The purpose of a conceptual framework. A conceptual framework serves multiple functions in a research project. It helps in clarifying the research problem and purpose, assists in refining the research questions, and guides the data collection and analysis process. It's the tool that ties all aspects of the study together, offering a coherent ...
Abstract. In this paper the author proposes a new qualitative method for building conceptual frameworks for phenomena that are linked to multidisciplinary bodies of knowledge. First, he redefines the key terms of concept, conceptual framework, and conceptual framework analysis. Concept has some components that define it.
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.
A framework is an. outline of the multiple variables of a research, and the relationships that exists between the. variables to bring about what is desired. The variables are coordinated and form ...
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.
inda M. CrawfordAtthe outset of planning your research, you set the study into a framework that justifies the study and explains its. tructure or design. This framework is like a fou. dation for a house. It provides the essential support for the study components and also clarifies the context of the study for the reader, much lik.
For this reason, the conceptual framework of your study—the system of concepts, assumptions, expectations, beliefs, and theories that supports and informs your research—is a key part of your design (Miles & Huberman, 1994; Robson, 2011). Miles and Huberman (1994) defined a conceptual framework as a visual or written product,
digms that can serve as foundations for qualitative research. Qualitative research emerged in the past century as a useful framework for social science research, but its history has not been the story of steady, sustained progress along one path. Denzin and Lincoln (1994, 2005) divide the history of 20th-century qualitative social science ...
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 ...
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 ...
International Journal of Qualitative Methods 2009, 8(4) 51 Redefining conceptual framework Current usage of the terms conceptual framework and theoretical framework are vague and imprecise. In this paper I define conceptual framework as a network, or "a plane," of interlinked concepts that together provide a comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon or phenomena.
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.
A diagram by Varpio and colleagues demonstrates the similarities and differences between theories and frameworks, and how they influence research approaches. 1(p991) The diagram displays the objectivist or deductive approach to research on the left-hand side. Note how the conceptual framework is first finalised before any research is commenced ...
lens of one doctoral student's qualitative dissertation. Using Ravitch and Carl's (2021) conceptual framework guide, each key component is explored, using my own dissertation as an example. Breaking down each framework section step-by-step, my journey illustrates the iterative process that conceptual framework development requires.
A conceptual framework is then developed by summarizing the mental image of the themes and patterns that are emerging from the data. First you look at the data, you listen to other people's ...
Deborah Gabriel 14th February 2015. I previously delivered this presentation to final year undergraduate students about to embark on their dissertation projects - but developed this guide while undertaking my PhD. Developing conceptual frameworks for qualitative research Follow Me on Academia.edu. Tagged conceptual framework, qualitative ...
Theoretical and conceptual frameworks differ fundamentally in their scope. Theoretical frameworks provide a broad and general view of the research problem, rooted in established theories. They explain phenomena by applying a particular theoretical lens. Conceptual frameworks, on the other hand, offer a more focused view of the specific research ...
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.
Opinion of how serious a condition and its consequences are. Perceived Benefits. Belief in the efficacy of the advised action to reduce risk or seriousness of impact. Perceived Barriers. Opinion of the tangible and psychological costs of the advised action. Cues to Action. Exposure to strategies to prompt action.
The conceptual framework consists of the ideas that are used to define research and evaluate data. Conceptual frameworks are often laid out at the beginning of a paper or an experiment description for a reader to understand the methods used (Mensah et al., 2020).
The other day I was watching a utube on the topic and it listed 3 elements that makes up conceptual framework. The present listed. 1. Personal Interest. 2. Topical Research, and. 3. Theoretical ...
The role of theoretical frameworks in qualitative research is particularly significant in informing the research design. They influence the choice of research methods, such as interviews, observations, and case studies.Theoretical frameworks also help researchers choose data collection and analysis that are appropriate for the research questions and objectives.
Autoethnographic Storytelling in Qualitative Research - Carolyn Ellis and Arthur Bochner - January 15, 2025; TQR Past Workshops. Johnny Saldaña - Rapid Qualitative Data Analysis in Public Health Practice (July 10, 2024) Johnny Saldaña - Designing Conceptual Frameworks for Qualitative Research Studies (March 27, 2024)
Qualitative research provides a valuable understanding of complicated human experiences and social situations, making it a strong tool in various areas of study. Despite its challenges, such as unreliability, subjectivity, and limited generalizability, its strengths in flexibility, natural settings, and generating meaningful insights make it an ...