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  • Essay / Building a Theoretical Framework - 1501

    Desjardins (2010) states that a theoretical framework is a logically structured representation of the concepts, variables and relationships involved in a specific study with the aim of clearly identifying what will be explored , examined, measured or described. The theoretical framework introduces and describes the theory that clarifies the reason for the research problem. The information found in the theoretical framework expresses to the reader why the research problem was chosen, provides a clear hypothesis, and gives a description of the theory. In short, the theoretical framework serves as a guide to why the research problem is important and how the research problem will be studied. The theoretical framework is an important element of a research problem. It must be constructed in such a way as to demonstrate a good understanding of the theories and concepts related to the research problem. The researcher should also be familiar with current and historical literature as it relates to the topic being studied. This is an essential part of the theoretical framework because it reduces the possibility of bias in the research. A clear connection must also be made between the theory underlying the current study and the findings of the study (Theoretical Framework in Dissertations: A Brief Discussion, 2010). Each concept of the problem, objective statement, and research questions must be supported by literature. The demonstrated understanding must also relate to broad areas of knowledge that include the research problem. Acquiring the knowledge necessary to demonstrate an understanding of the theories and concepts of the research problem is not an easy task. ...... middle of paper ......n Development. (2010, December). Retrieved February 24, 2012, from Northcentral University Dissertation Center: http://learners.ncu.edu/ncu_diss/default.aspx?attendance=YCreswell, J. W. (2008). Educational research: plan, conduct and evaluate quantitative and qualitative research. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc. Desjardins, F. (July 19, 2010). Theoretical framework [Video file]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcnufgQzMjcLeedy, P. and Ormrod, JE (2010). Practical research planning and design. Upper Saddle River: Pearson. Pajares, F. (2007). Elements of a proposal. Available from the author. Theoretical framework for dissertations: A brief discussion. (April 16, 2010). Retrieved February 24, 2012 from Northcentral University Dissertation Center: http://learners.ncu.edu/ncu_diss/default.aspx?attendance=Y