Conceptual vs theoretical framework

Summary

In this video, Dr. Elizabeth Yardley explains the differences between conceptual and theoretical frameworks in research, using the example of high-value vehicle thefts in affluent neighborhoods. A conceptual framework organizes key concepts and their relationships, while a theoretical framework draws on established theories to guide interpretation. Through a criminology example, Dr. Yardley highlights how visualizing the framework helps researchers define their study's focus and choose relevant theories based on their philosophical paradigm. The video provides valuable insights for students looking to understand and apply these frameworks effectively in their research projects.

Takeaways

• 😀 A conceptual framework helps organize and guide the research process by identifying key concepts, variables, and relationships.
• 😀 A theoretical framework is a set of established theories or perspectives that inform and guide the research approach.
• 😀 The main difference between a conceptual framework and a theoretical framework is that the conceptual framework focuses on defining concepts, while the theoretical framework draws upon established theories to guide the research.
• 😀 A conceptual framework is like a map for organizing ideas and helps clarify what you are examining and how things relate to each other.
• 😀 A theoretical framework helps interpret findings and shapes your contribution to knowledge by providing a lens for understanding the study.
• 😀 Example study: 'Understanding High-Value Vehicle Thefts in Affluent Neighborhoods' illustrates how to develop both conceptual and theoretical frameworks.
• 😀 A conceptual framework begins with identifying the key concepts of your study, such as 'high-value vehicles', 'vehicle thefts', and 'affluent neighborhoods', and their interconnections.
• 😀 Additional concepts like 'security measures', 'risk of detection', 'types of vehicles targeted', 'temporal factors', and 'spatial factors' can be incorporated into the conceptual framework for a more comprehensive view.
• 😀 Theoretical frameworks are built by exploring existing theories in your research area, such as Routine Activity Theory, Left Realism, Cultural Criminology, and Psychosocial Theory.
• 😀 Your research paradigm (positivist, interpretivist, or critical realist) influences the theories you choose for your theoretical framework and your overall approach to the research.
• 😀 Theoretical frameworks can be integrated into the conceptual framework to help identify gaps in existing research and guide the development of your study.
• 😀 Visual diagrams of your conceptual and theoretical frameworks can be a useful tool for staying focused on key ideas, their relationships, and relevant theories throughout your research.

Q & A

What is the difference between a conceptual framework and a theoretical framework?

A conceptual framework is a structure that helps organize and guide the research process by identifying key concepts, variables, and relationships. It provides a visual map for the study. A theoretical framework, on the other hand, is a set of established theories or perspectives that guide the approach to the research. It helps you interpret your findings and understand the contribution of your study to existing knowledge.

How does a conceptual framework help in research?

A conceptual framework helps researchers conceptualize their study by drawing a picture of what the study is looking at. It focuses on defining key concepts and relationships within the research, allowing researchers to organize their ideas and identify the factors relevant to the study.

What is the role of a theoretical framework in research?

A theoretical framework provides a lens through which the researcher can approach, interpret, and analyze their study. It draws upon established theories to guide the research process and helps explain the findings in relation to existing knowledge in the field.

Can a conceptual framework change during the research process?

Yes, a conceptual framework is not set in stone. It is common for researchers to revisit and adjust their framework as they learn more about their topic during the research process. It is a tool that evolves alongside the study.

Why is brainstorming important in developing a conceptual framework?

Brainstorming helps identify additional factors that might influence the study, which may not be immediately obvious. It allows the researcher to consider a wider range of concepts and their potential relationships, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive conceptual framework.

What theories might be included in the theoretical framework of a study on high-value vehicle thefts?

Theoretical frameworks for studying high-value vehicle thefts could include Routine Activity Theory, Left Realism, Cultural Criminology, and Psychosocial Theory. Each offers a different perspective, from individual motivations to broader societal factors that influence crime.

How do research paradigms influence the choice of theories for the theoretical framework?

Your research paradigm (e.g., positivism, interpretivism, or critical realism) influences the theories you choose by shaping how you view the world and what you focus on. For instance, a positivist might gravitate toward measurable, observable factors like crime patterns, while an interpretivist might focus on understanding the meanings behind criminal behavior.

What is the importance of paradigms in research, according to Dr. Yardley?

Paradigms are important because they serve as the lenses through which researchers view the world. Understanding your research paradigm helps you make decisions about what concepts to focus on and which theories to apply, as it shapes your assumptions and approach to the study.

Why might a researcher use a diagram to represent their conceptual framework?

A diagram helps visually organize the key concepts and their relationships within the study. It provides a clear overview of the research focus and helps keep the researcher oriented to the bigger picture, especially when the research becomes complex.

How can a theoretical framework help identify gaps in research?

By integrating theories into the conceptual framework, a researcher can identify areas where existing theories do not adequately explain certain concepts or relationships. This can highlight gaps in the literature, allowing the research to contribute new insights or fill in missing explanations.