Conceptual Frameworks, Hypotheses, and Definitions of Terms PDF

Module 3. Conceptual Framework and Review of Related Literature Lesson 1. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK At the end of this module, you should be able to: 1. illustrate and explain the research framework (CS_RS12-If-j-6); 2. define terms used in the study (CS_RS12-If-j- 7)...

Module 3. Conceptual Framework and Review of Related Literature Lesson 1. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK At the end of this module, you should be able to: 1. illustrate and explain the research framework (CS_RS12-If-j-6); 2. define terms used in the study (CS_RS12-If-j- 7); 3. list research hypothesis (if appropriate) (CS_RS12-If-j-8) and 4. present a written review of related literature and conceptual framework (CS_RS12-If-j-9). PRE-TEST. 1. Which of the following frameworks refers to the actual ideas, beliefs, and tentative theories that specifically support the study? A. methodological framework B. conceptual framework C. chronological framework D. theoretical framework 2. A research variable that is considered as the presumed effect of the study. A. independent variable B. dependent variable C. moderating variable D. control variable 3. One of the two types of defining the terms in research wherein you need to define according to how the term is being used in the study is: A. Methodological B. operational C. Theoretical D. conceptual 4. Which among the following is a guideline/characteristic of a good definition of terms? A. the term should be in parenthesis B. direct to the point C. underlined the entire meaning D. not indented 5. The word is defined according to its meaning from the dictionary. A. Operational B. Historical C. Conceptual D. Technical 6. Which of the following hypotheses shows no relationship between variables? A. alternative hypothesis B. complex hypothesis C. logical hypothesis D. null hypothesis 7. It refers to the assumption about the relationship between the variables. A. guide questions B. framework C. Hypothesis D. literature Module 3. Conceptual Framework and Review of Related Literature Lesson 1. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK A research framework illustrates the structure or blueprint of the research plan and helps the researcher formulate relevant research questions.  The framework consists of the key concepts and assumes relationships of the research project. It can be presented using visual (diagrams, chart, etc.) and narrative (paragraph stating the concepts and relationships of the study) forms.  Types of Research Frameworks theoretical frameworks conceptual frameworks.  A theoretical framework is commonly used for studies that anchor on time-tested theories that relate the findings of investigation to the underpinning relevant theory of knowledge.  A conceptual framework refers to the actual ideas, beliefs, and tentative theories that specifically support the study. It is primarily a conception or model of what is out there that the researcher plans to study.  Similarities of the Theoretical and Conceptual Framework The following are the similar characteristics of Theoretical and Conceptual Framework: 1. Provide an overall view of the research study; 2. Anchor a theory that supports the study; 3. Guide in developing relevant research questions/objectives 4. Help justify assumptions/hypothesis; 5. Aid in choosing appropriate methodology; 6. Help in gathering and interpreting data and 7. Guide in identifying possible threats to validity. GUIDELINES AND STRATEGIES IN CHOOSING AND DEVELOPING A RESEARCH FRAMEWORK Refer to your research questions or objectives to identify the essential themes in your study. Look for additional theories that involve the same principle and see how they relate to one another. Make a concept map of your conceptual framework, utilizing the existing theories as a reference. If there are topics which are not included in the theories you have chosen and you know that it is essential to your study, you can include it. You have to make a written explanation on the concepts that are being incorporated and their impact to one another after you have made the first draft of your conceptual framework. Moreover, you have to revisit your research questions and conceptual framework if they are aligned. It is important to remember that developing a conceptual framework is a process. This means that as you study more material and research more theories, it may still be refined or updated. The research hypothesis may be stated at the end of the conceptual framework in some situations. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS Example Research Title Mathematical Disabilities and Learning Abilities of Non-Numerates Grade 7 Students 28 29 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS Example CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK is like a recipe or blueprint. It provides an outline on how to conduct the research. It is presented in a flow chart, map or diagram. Research Title Mathematical Disabilities and Learning Abilities of Non-Numerates Grade 7 Students CONCEPT MAP A concept map is a visual representation of information that helps show the relationship between ideas. Concept maps begin with the main topic and then branch out into sub-topics, reflecting the connection of all the elements in the study. It can also provide and organize new ideas. It is composed of different figures such as lines, circles, boxes, and other marks or symbols which represent the elements of your research. It can take the form of charts, graphic organizers, tables, flowcharts, Venn Diagrams, timelines, or T-charts. Concept map arranges related ideas in a hierarchy. Concept maps are very useful for researchers and readers who understand better visually. With the proper connection of lines and linking arrows to shapes and other symbols representing your concepts about the research, the readers can visualize a comprehensive picture of your study. Common Example of Conceptual Framework A. INDEPENDENT VARIABLE – DEPENDENT VARIABLE (IV – DV) B. THE INPUT – PROCESS – OUTPUT MODEL (IPO) B. The Input – Process - Output Model (IPO) This conceptual framework shows the input, process, and output approach of the study. The input is the independent variable, which includes the socio-demographic and food safety profile of the respondents. The process includes the tools and analyses in gathering the data, while the output is the outcome based on the results of the study.  The Input-Process-Output Model (IPO) is a conceptual paradigm which indicates the inputs, required process, and the output. This approach is seated on the premise of acquiring essential information by converting inputs into outputs through the required processing steps in obtaining the result. The IPO Model is also referred to as a functional model that is usually used in action research where an intervention or solution is necessary to solve the identified problem. The Input is usually the independent variable of the study. Meanwhile, the Process is the intervention or solution consist of the instruments and analyses used to acquire the result. Lastly, the Output is the findings or outcome of the interventions being made to solve the identified problem. Activity 1. SPOT THE VARIABLE  Research Title 1: Effect of Mentoring Program on Academic Performance among Senior High School Students Conceptual paradigm: Independent Variable Dependent Variable Research Title 2: Medical Intervention and the Number of Patients Recovering from Pneumonia Elements/Factors 1. Health Care Facilities 2. Work Experience of the Medical Team 3. Medical intervention 4. Social Status of the Patient 5. Number of Patients Recovered from Pneumonia 6. Immune System of the Patient 7. Patient’s Employment In this conceptual framework, there are assumed moderating variables that are taken into consideration that somehow influence the relationship between the independent and the dependent variable. They can affect the strength of the connection of the variables. 46 Research Title 3: Effects of the Social Responsibility of a Corporation to its Organizational Performance Elements/Factors 1. Organizational Performance 2. Total Number of Employees 3. Clients’ Loyalty 4. Corporate Social Responsibility 5. Employee’s Dedication 6. Administrative Commitment 7. Corporate Business Location 8. Type of Business In this conceptual framework, there are assumed moderating variables that are taken into consideration that somehow can affect the relationship of the independent variable to the dependent variable. Hence, they would potentially influence the dependent variable. 48  Activity 2. NAME THAT TITLE Direction: From the given framework below, formulate research title according to the elements and factors that are present in the variables. Give three (3) possible research titles that would reflect on the given variables. 50 Answers: Write three (3) possible research titles. 51 Module 3. Conceptual Framework and Review of Related Literature Lesson 2. DEFINITION OF TERMS  The Definition of Terms helps in simplifying some of the technical terms which are vital in the understanding of the research project. Although this part of the paper is optional, it is advantageous for the reader to include this to prevent the ambiguous meaning of terms that might otherwise be interpreted in different ways, causing confusion. It can also enhance comprehension of important key terms.  Definition of Terms is also called as Operational Definition of Variables (ODV). The word operational refers to “how the word/term was used in the study.  Two Ways of Defining the Terms  conceptual definition  operational definition. The conceptual definition is the meaning of the term that is based on how it is defined in the dictionary or encyclopedia. Operational definition, on the other hand, is the meaning of the term based on how it was used in the study. Benefits of having Definition of Terms 1. It is a useful place to include technical terms in the topic of the research questions. 2. It can clarify the definition of term, especially if it has a different meaning. Define the term according to how it was used in the study. 3. It makes it easier to revisit or check the meaning of a term instead of trying to locate it through the paper. 4. Helps to ensure that the reader can understand the technical terminologies and jargons while reading the paper. Guidelines on How to Write the Definition of Terms 1. Write a brief introductory statement. It must shortly describe the content of the definition of terms. 2. List/write the words/terms (which are technical) that would be included (make sure that the variables and key terms found in the title are included). 3. The terms should be arranged alphabetically. 4. Indention should be applied to each term. 5. The term should be followed with a period. 6. It can be underlined or not. 7. It can be bold and italic or not. 8. It does not have to be lengthy (direct to the point). 9. Acronym/initials should be defined clearly. Complete name should be written first, followed by the acronym/initials in open-close parenthesis, then the definition/meaning. 10. Do not overflow with technical terms (only those relevant and significant to the study). 11. Keep the definition brief and basic. You will elaborate on it more in the body of your paper. Activity 3. Try These! Instruction: Determine whether each statement provides an operational or conceptual definition. Write "OPERATIONAL" if the statement gives an operational definition, and "CONCEPTUAL" if it provides a conceptual definition. 1. A. Student. A person who is enrolled or attends classes at school, college, or university. 1. B. Student. Refers to a person who is enrolled and attends a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy of this university. 2. A. Undergraduate. Refers to a student who is enrolled in the course of Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in this university who has not yet received the degree. 2. B. Undergraduate. A student at a college or university who has not yet earned a bachelor's or equivalent degree. 3. A. Graduate. Refers to a student who has completed the degree of Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy of this university. 3. B. Graduate. A person who has completed a course of study or training, especially a person who has been awarded an undergraduate academic degree. Module 3. Conceptual Framework and Review of Related Literature Lesson 3. RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS When you are finished identifying your statement of the problem or research questions/objectives, you may now start formulating the hypothesis of your study. What is hypothesis?  A Hypothesis is a tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a specific and testable prediction on what you expect to happen with the variables in your study. Usually, it proposes a possible relationship between the independent variable (what the researcher changes) and the dependent variable (what the research measures). It is also described as an “educated guess” of what possibly the result would be of your research, which should be supported on existing theories and knowledge. As a researcher, you must determine whether your hypothesis is accepted or not based on the findings and outcome of your research study. Not all studies have a hypothesis while some studies have several hypotheses. TYPES OF RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS SIMPLE HYPOTHESIS A simple hypothesis is a prediction of the relationship between two variables, the independent variable and the dependent variable. It shows a connection between one independent variable and a single dependent variable. Ex: The higher the poverty rate in society (one independent variable), the higher the number would be the out of school youth (one dependent variable). COMPLEX HYPOTHESIS The complex hypothesis reflects the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable. It expresses a connection between two or more independent variables and two or more dependent variables (https://bit.ly/37UCE9q). Ex: Eating more vegetables and fresh fruits (independent variables) leads to boost immune system and enhance blood circulation and digestion (dependent variables). EMPIRICAL HYPOTHESIS An empirical hypothesis is also called as the “working hypothesis.” It is presumed to explain certain facts and relationships of phenomena. It comes to life when a theory is being put to the test, using observation and experiment. From the name itself “working,” it would mean that it can be changed or replace anytime as soon as it is no longer supported or accepted base on the observation and experimentation being done. It is going through some trial and error and perhaps changing around those independent variables. Ex: Plants watered everyday grow faster than plants watered once a week. (Here, trial and error are leading to a series of findings). LOGICAL HYPOTHESIS Logical hypothesis expresses explanation with limited evidence that can be verified logically. It reflects a relationship of the variables which are anchored based on logical phenomena. Sometimes, a logical hypothesis can be turned into an empirical hypothesis in which you have to test your theories and postulates Ex: Tomato plants bear fruit faster in Earth than in Moon. (Until we are can test the soil and plant growth in Moon's ground, the evidence for this claim will be limited, and the hypothesis will only remain logical). STATISTICAL HYPOTHESIS A statistical hypothesis is an analysis of a portion of a population. It can be verified statistically. The variables in a statistical hypothesis can be transformed into quantifiable sub-variable to assess it statistically. Ex: If your research is about the psychosocial development of K-3 pupils of the private and public schools in the city, you would want to examine every single K-3 pupil in the city. It is not practical. Therefore, you would conduct your research using a statistical hypothesis or a sample of the K-3 pupil population. NULL HYPOTHESIS The null hypothesis is denoted with the symbol Ho It exists when you consider that there is no relationship between the independent and dependent variables or that there is an insufficient amount of information to claim a scientific hypothesis (McLeod, 2020). NULL HYPOTHESIS Examples: There is no significant change in my health, whether I exercise every day or not. There is no significant relationship between the memory-boosting tablet and the students’ score in examination. The memory-boosting tablet has nothing to do with the student’s score in examination. ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESIS An alternative hypothesis is denoted with the symbol (Ha). It is an alternate statement expressed to be tested in order to generate the desired output when the empirical or working hypothesis is not accepted. In an attempt to disprove a null hypothesis, you tend to seek an alternative hypothesis (McLeod, 2020). Ex: ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESIS Examples: My health improves during the times when I sleep 8 hours a day than sleeping for 4 hours only. There is a significant relationship between the memory-boosting tablet and the students’ score in examination The memory-boosting tablet significantly affects the student’s score in examination. A HYPOTHESIS CAN BE CLASSIFIED AS DIRECTIONAL AND NON- DIRECTIONAL HYPOTHESIS DIRECTIONAL HYPOTHESIS The directional hypothesis relates the relationship between the variables and can also predict its nature. It illustrates the direct association of the impact of the independent variable with the dependent variable, whether it is positively or negatively affected. The direction of the statement should be clear and justified according to the findings of the study. Since the hypothesis is gearing to one specific direction it is investigated through a one-tailed test (McLeod, 2020). DIRECTIONAL HYPOTHESIS Ex: Students who are eating nutritious food have higher grades than students not having a proper meal. (This shows that there is an effect between the grades and nutritious food and the direction of effect is clear that the students got a higher grade). NON - DIRECTIONAL HYPOTHESIS A non-directional hypothesis is used when there is no principle involved. It is a premise that a relationship exists between two variables. However, the direction of the effect is not specifically determined. It is a statement that reflects the association of the independent variable to the dependent variable without predicting the exact nature of the direction of the relationship. This relationship is not specified as negative or positive. The hypothesis, in this case, is investigated through a two-tailed test (McLeod, 2020). NON - DIRECTIONAL HYPOTHESIS Ex: There is a significant difference in the average grades between those students that have proper nutritious meal and those that do not have proper meals. (This depicts that there is an effect between the average grades and nutritious food, but it does not reflect the direction of the effect whether it is positively or negatively affected). Guidelines in Formulating Hypothesis 1. Before writing your specific hypothesis, spend more time researching about the topic you are interested in. Focus on information and previous studies related to your topic. 2. Your independent variable and dependent variable must be included in your hypothesis. 3. The relationship of your variables must be reflected in your hypothesis. Will your independent variable affect your dependent variable? 4. Your hypothesis should be simple and specific as possible. If your hypothesis is vague and complicated, it would be difficult to find the answer to your question. 5. Your hypothesis should be concise and comprises clear and simple language. Make it short and simple for it to be easily understood and avoid any misconceptions or misunderstandings. 6. Your hypothesis should be testable without violating ethical standards. It means that it could be investigated and measured through a scientific method such as statistical analysis and data interpretation. 7. Your hypothesis must be falsifiable. It means that your hypothesis can be proven wrong through experiments or empirical data. There are no absolute answers to research questions, but there is a possibility of validating the hypotheses to be true beyond a reasonable doubt.