There are so many branches of academics that it is impossible to
comprehend. There are so many sub-divisions of a single subject that you can study it in depth and gain extra knowledge. Theoretical framework is one such example. Although, it forms a part of dissertations that you write in college for your master's or PhD.
In this article, you will learn what its definition along with its components and different types. So, let's dive deep into the world of academics with this subject.
What Is Theoretical Framework?
It is a framework that helps you in the research field. It helps you to support or hold a theory of a research study. Therefore, it tells you how a researcher uses it to explain their work and also to prove arguments that they have put up in the paper.
There is a defined set of structures that suits different studies. You can use which is most beneficial to you. Before you learn about its various kinds, let's discuss the components of the theoretical framework that help in analysis. They are as follows:
Components of Theoretical Framework
There are three components of a theoretical framework. You will learn about them in detail at these points:
- Identify Key Concepts
The first and foremost work you do is to pick out the main terms from your problem statements and research questions. As there are so many terms that you put in your study, you must define every term properly and clearly. There must be no confusion in the mind of the reader regarding them.
- Evaluate and Explain Theories
It is vital to explain the theories that you have used in your research paper. You use this method to compare your work with the other authors and draw connections with them. Once, you figure that out, you can use definitions that best suit your needs and elaborate on why it is the case.
- Show How Your Research Fits
After you discuss and define the theories, you take a step forward and explain how your research will help in improving the existing research. It is essential to tell the readers how it will impact the field. If there is any negative impact of your work, then you must also mention them.
Types of Theoretical Framework
Now that you understand the components of the theoretical framework, it is time to know its different types. They are six in number. You can apply these types according to your needs and requirements. You sometimes specifically is asked to use a particular one, so make sure to read the instructions carefully. Let's see what are these types in great detail.
Conceptual
As the name suggests in itself, it states the key concepts and the relation between them. It is vital to define every term that you use in your research. It should be clear and concise. Avoid using layman's language in your paper. As it is an academic article, you need to make sure that you use proper terms and definitions. If you face issues in putting down a piece on this subject, you can seek thesis statement generator free for help.
Deductive
This theoretical research is generally used in quantitative studies. It starts with a general hypothesis and then collects data to test it. This theory will apply to subject matter that has numbers like maths, economics, and analysis. It helps in understanding the numbers more thoroughly and making necessary changes.
Inductive
This framework starts with the collection of data and then draws up a hypothesis. You generally use this approach in qualitative research. It gathers consumers' experiences, perceptions and behaviour. It answers the questions of how and why. This technique mostly helps in fields that deal with people and their emotions.
Empirical
You use this theory in the scientific field. It completely focuses on the collection and study of empirical data. It analyses the effects of it on the overall research. You should be careful when you apply this method, as total accuracy is vital in this field.
Normative
This framework you use in ethical and social science. It helps in understanding the behaviour of humans. It learns how humans act and behave in a social setting and how they communicate within the community and association. Although, it is considered an old science as compared to another framework in this group.
Explanatory
This framework you use in psychology and social sciences. It studies the particular behaviour of humans. It is essential to understand why a certain person behaves in a peculiar way than another. Moreover, it helps to comprehend how a person's brain works in a setting.
conclusion
Therefore, you saw what the theoretical framework is and its components and types. It is imperative to understand that these methods work for different studies. You can use what suits your needs and wants and work according to it. The importance of these may vary, but it is all vital in their respective fields.
So, it is vital to study them properly and give them credit where it is due. It is ever-changing and evolving with time, and you should be up to date with all the changes. So be prepared to understand them and make necessary adjustments according to your needs.
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