Develop a Theoretical Framework in 3 Steps | Scribbr 🎓

Summary

In this educational video, Jessica from Scribbr outlines the process of crafting a theoretical framework for academic research. She emphasizes defining key concepts, critically evaluating and selecting relevant theories, and explaining how these theories will be applied in the research. The video also discusses the importance of showing how one's research fits within existing theories and the flexibility in structuring the framework. It serves as a guide for students to integrate theories into their research projects effectively.

Takeaways

• 📚 The theoretical framework in research serves to present and explain existing theories and models.
• 🔍 It involves identifying key concepts from the research problem and questions, and defining them clearly.
• 📊 The process includes evaluating, comparing, and selecting the most relevant theories for the research topic.
• 🎯 Step 1 of creating a theoretical framework is to identify key terms from the research problem and questions.
• 📝 Step 2 involves critically evaluating and explaining relevant theories, comparing different authors' approaches.
• 🔑 After discussing theories, the framework should establish definitions that best fit the research and justify the choice.
• 🧩 In complex projects, theories from different fields may be combined to create a unique framework.
• 🔗 Step 3 is to demonstrate how the research will utilize these theories, such as testing a theory in a specific context or using it to interpret results.
• 📖 The theoretical framework may be integrated into a literature review chapter or stand alone if dealing with complex theories.
• 📈 There are no fixed rules for structuring a theoretical framework; clarity and logical structure are key.

Q & A

What is the purpose of a theoretical framework in research?

The purpose of a theoretical framework in research is to present and explain the theories and models that other researchers have already developed, and to provide a foundation for the research by showing that the work is grounded in established ideas.

Why is it important to identify key concepts in the theoretical framework?

Identifying key concepts is important because it helps to clearly define the terms from the problem statement and research questions, which are central to the research.

How does one evaluate and explain relevant theories in a theoretical framework?

One evaluates and explains relevant theories by comparing and critically evaluating the approaches different authors have proposed, selecting the most relevant ones, and justifying why they fit the research aims.

Can you give an example of how theories are compared in a theoretical framework?

In the script, Thomassen's definition of customer satisfaction is compared with Zeithaml and Bitner's to establish the most relevant definition for the study.

What are some ways a researcher's own project can utilize theories in a theoretical framework?

A researcher's project can utilize theories by testing if a theory holds in a specific context, using theory as a basis for interpreting results, critiquing or challenging a theory, or combining different theories in a new or unique way.

Should the theoretical framework always be a separate chapter in a thesis or dissertation?

There are no fixed rules; the theoretical framework can be integrated into a literature review chapter or presented as a separate chapter, depending on the complexity of the theories involved.

What is the significance of creating a clear, logical structure in a theoretical framework?

Creating a clear, logical structure in a theoretical framework is significant because it helps in organizing the presentation of theories and models in a way that is easy to follow and understand.

How can a researcher structure their theoretical framework if they are unsure how to proceed?

If a researcher is unsure how to structure their theoretical framework, they can draw on their research questions and structure each section around a question or key concept.

What is the role of the theoretical framework in relation to the literature review in a research project?

The theoretical framework provides the theoretical basis for the research, while the literature review offers an overview of existing research and knowledge on the topic, often integrating the theoretical framework within it.

Why might a researcher choose to combine theories from different fields in their theoretical framework?

A researcher might choose to combine theories from different fields to build a unique framework that addresses the complexity of their research question or to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic.

What is the advice for researchers who are dealing with complex theories in their research?

For researchers dealing with complex theories, it is advised to include a separate theoretical framework chapter to clearly articulate the theories and their relevance to the research.