Theoretical Framework & Research Background

Theoretical Framework

• The theoretical framework is the development of the theory that supports the operational framework
• It's composed of theoretical inputs that underpin the operational analysis of information
• In exploratory research (like case studies), the theoretical framework acts as the core of the investigation, defining concepts, ideas, and criteria.
• The theoretical framework is used for the operationalization of variables, concepts, theories, and related terminology

Research Background/Antecedents

• Research background includes previous investigations whose themes relate to the current study

• They set boundaries of prior research, indicating what has been done in the associated field (also known as the state of the art)

• They provide groundwork for current inquiries

• Research background materials are used to support or dispute the current research

• Background investigations serve as input for establishing the theory or results of the research

• They validate or disapprove existing research, and this is typically noted in the discussion

Theoretical Foundations

• The theoretical foundations comprise the theories, concepts, and definitions necessary for understanding the operational framework
• These foundations are drawn primarily from the variables and indicators, and the contexts in which they relate
• In many cases the influencing/intervening variable isn't considered in operationalization
• However, the theoretical framework should explicitly cover conceptual aspects of this influencing variable.

Levels of Research

• Exploratory Level: In exploratory studies, the theoretical framework is synonymous with the research inquiry. No operational framework is involved.
• Descriptive Level: A descriptive research project does not require an operational framework. The framework focuses on the characteristics of the subject of study
• Comparative Level: The theoretical framework determines the variables/indicators to be compared alongside legal and historical frameworks.

Concept and Theory Development

• Developing concepts and theories is a complex process requiring deep knowledge of the topic
• Researchers utilize various resources such as textbooks, scientific journals, and electronic articles to develop theories
• Techniques for conceptualization include:
  • Describing the subject
  • Comparing it to a reference point
  • Using examples, including hypothetical situations
  • Explaining underlying factors and consequences

Legal Framework

• The legal framework involves analyzing the current legal framework and the case study
• This isn't only applicable to law-centered studies; any project requiring legal validation will utilize this document.

Referential Framework

• The referential framework is inherent to the theoretical framework and aids the investigation by explaining terms

Historical Framework

• This involves the evolution of a subject of study throughout time and the contributions of key figures or relevant historical events.

Report Results and Analysis

• This section describes how the variable is measured
• It's where procedures for data collection, processing, and analysis are outlined
• The procedures depend on whether the study is quantitative or qualitative

Data Collection

• The data collection methods include questionnaires, inventories, scales, and data collection sheets.
• Data can be presented in matrices or instruments

Data Processing

• Data is often processed using statistical analysis.
  • This involves various calculations like reliability and validity
• Descriptive and inferential data analysis may be necessary
• Descriptive data analysis is used to examine the basic features of gathered data
• Inferential data analysis is used to infer characteristics of a population from sample data.

Discussion of Results

• This section analyzes the study's results and conclusions in the context of broader research
• It compares findings against other studies and existing theories/hypotheses
• It identifies limitations of the study and suggests avenues for future research
• It provides recommendations based on findings

Conclusions

• Conclusions are the results of the research
• They answer the research questions, reflecting whether the initial hypothesis was supported or not
• In addition to confirming or disproving the initial hypothesis, conclusions may present implications and applications

Recommendations

• Recommendations are based on study results
• They are practical actions for improvement, taken from an expert perspective
• They address identified problems or shortcomings from the investigation

Technical Specifications

• The technical specifications outline the design and operation of the research instruments utilized in the study