UNDERSTANDING THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS Dr Karen Johnson

UNDERSTANDING THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS Dr. Karen Johnson, Dr. Medgar Roberts, Dr. Stephanie Cimperman University of Phoenix November 5, 2020

◦ Introductions ◦ Inconsistencies in scholarly literature ◦ Definitions of and Distinctions between Conceptual and Theoretical Framework ◦ Theories identified Agenda ◦ Resource for Novel Coronavirus studies ◦ Selecting theory(ies) ◦ Examples of Conceptual Frameworks ◦ Examples of Theoretical Frameworks ◦ References ◦ Questions 2

• Set of theories or concepts that underpin the research. Tells where the research and the researcher are coming from. Many different definitions and roles of frameworks in the literature • Places the study within the context of the researcher’s philosophy on life and research. • Theories and concepts come from research that relates to the topic of the current study • Methodologists suggest that conceptual frameworks are used in qualitative research and theoretical frameworks are used in quantitative research 3

The approach to conceptual frameworks that I have seen most often is that a conceptual framework can be used in the absence of an existing theory that relates to the topic and purpose of the study or it can be built around several theories that form a new concept for the study. Some Distinctions Theoretical framework more typically uses one specific theory that guides the research study. To better understand concepts, models, and theories, see this You. Tube video. https: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=XLM wt. NDi 1 ok&feature=youtu. be 4

How the framework is used ◦ The framework allows the researcher to convincingly interpret, explain, and generalize findings to the larger group the sample was drawn from in the case of some quantitative studies or to show the transferability of the findings to similar situations in the case of qualitative studies. ◦ It is the lens through which each element of the study is explored and explained. 5

From the CDS dissertation formatting template ◦ Theoretical or Conceptual Framework ◦ (One or the other—delete either theoretical or conceptual from the heading) ◦ The framework should place the study in perspective among existing theories or conceptual models and provide a framework related to the research topic. The discussion should reflect the broad theoretical area under which the research falls and reflect familiarity with germinal and current theories in the field. Remember that a theoretical framework is typically used for a quantitative study to model theoretical relationships between the variables; a conceptual framework is typically used for a qualitative study and consists of several theories that underpin the topic. The framework should only introduce readers to the relevant theories; this discussion will be expanded in chapter 2. 6

What are some theories? Education studies: Bandura's Observational Learning Theory, Bloom's Hierarchy of Learning, Bruner's Constructivist Theory, Dulia Rogers Experiential Theory, Erikson's Developmental Theory, Gagne's Conditions of Learning, Vygotsky's Social Development Theory, or behaviorism based on Skinner, Thorndike, or Watson's theories. Human behavior studies: social theory, motivation theory, cognitive dissonance, levels of consciousness, multiple intelligences, change theory, or resistance to change. 7

More theories ◦ Organizational studies: organizational systems theory, organizational learning theory, or retention theory. Other theories of organizations might include rational system perspective, division of labor, bureaucratic theory, and contingency theory. ◦ Business management studies are often grounded in financial theories, value theories, consumer theories or theories that combine these elements such as Porter's Five Forces Analysis. Also, consider Thomassen's Customer Service Model. 8

DHA students consider healthcare or nursing theories such as Health Belief Model, Self-efficacy, health promotion/behavior change theories, or Roy's Adaptation Model. More theories ◦ Recently, I have had students or research teams that I work with use Critical Race Theory, Feminism, and Gender theory-theories that may relate to or grow out of the LGBTQ community and even theories that relate to the pandemic and how we're being governed as a result of it. 9

Theories or Concepts that can relate to the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic ◦ There has not yet been a great deal of research on how the pandemic is affecting our personal and professional lives, but many studies are beginning to emerge and there will certainly be many more in the coming months and years. I found a website with a student last week that shares much of the early research and wonder if each of us should check it out to see if there any theories or concepts there that might relate to our studies. Check out the Wiley Public Health Emergency Collection at the NCBI website to generate some ideas and discussion. https: //www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC 7361416/ ◦ One prominent theory that I see there is the Social Psychological Theory, which has many components that might underpin current research. ◦ Smith, L. , & Gibson, S. (2020). Social psychological theory and research on the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic: Introduction to the rapid response special section. The British journal of social psychology, 59(3), 571– 583. https: //doi. org/10. 1111/bjso. 12402 10

Identifying theories and concepts As we review literature on frameworks, we see that some sources suggest using either the problem or purpose statement or the research questions as a basis for developing a framework. Since the problem, purpose, and research questions should all align, using any of these elements should lead to success. Look at keywords and reflect on what concepts or theories that come to mind. 11

Research Question Example https: //www. scribbr. com/dissertation/theoretical-framework-example/ Company X is struggling with the problem that , many online customers do not return to make subsequent purchases. Management wants to increase customer loyalty and believes that improved customer satisfaction will play a major role in achieving this goal. ◦ Research question: ‘How can the satisfaction of company X’s online customers be improved in order to increase customer loyalty? ’ • Key concepts are customer satisfaction and loyalty. ◦ Research information on each topic. Customer service: Thomassen Customer Service Model, writings by Zeithaml and Bitner and Kottler and Keller. Might also consider Herzberg's Two Factor Theory which often is used with employee satisfaction, but some literature says it also applies to customer service. The goal is to study various theories and see which apply the best to the current study. 12

Examples of Conceptual Framework • DR. STEPHANIE CIMPERMAN'S 2020 QUALITATIVE DISSERTATION ENTITLED • INFORMAL SOCIALIZATION IN VIRTUAL WORK ENVIRONMENTS: A NARRATIVE INQUIRY 13

◦ Conceptual frameworks are a set of ideas, theories, beliefs, and assumptions that support a research study (Maxwell, 2013). Conceptual Frameworks ◦ Conceptual frameworks typically align with qualitative research methodology (Johnson et al. , 2020). ◦ Conceptual frameworks are useful to begin a research study or can be utilized to define the research study after a topic is generated (Zackoff, et al. , 2019). ◦ Conceptual frameworks provide structure to research and a set of boundaries to contain the interconnected concepts within the study. 14

Multiple approaches exist to develop a conceptual framework including: Generating Conceptual Frameworks A. Root Cause Analysis Approach: Adapted from root cause problem-solving methods as a process to identify the problem, understand research the root causes, and then generate a conceptual framework (Turin et al. , 2020). B. Concept Mapping: Creating graphics, bubble diagrams, concept maps, or drawings to generate, define, and connect concepts and ideas (Khamung et al. , 2019). C. Other: Identify important or relevant terms and definitions within the study and find related theories. 15

Barriers & Best Practices Potential Roadblocks: Tips: Getting started Brainstorm ideas related to your topic Identifying relevant concepts Identifying related concepts Use your resources (University Library, Google Scholar, read sample dissertations) Connecting the ideas Write down concepts in a journal Create a diagram connecting ideas (use bubble diagrams, mind maps, fishbone diagrams, concept maps, or flow charts) 16

Conceptual Model ◦ How individuals perceive themselves as members of society plays a part in their socialization, as individual differences effect on their learning to become members of an organization (Jones, 1983). ◦ Akers et al. , (1979) maintained through imitation, modeling the behavior of others, and conditioning, individuals acquire and learn social behavior. ◦ Organizational socialization is the process by which people obtain the social knowledge, information, values, skills, behaviors, and social norms necessary to accept a role in an organization (Louis, 1980). Figure 1. 0. Cycle of Socialization and Conceptual Connections to Informal Socialization 17

Examples of Theoretical Framework • DR. J. MEDGAR ROBERTS' 2015 QUANTITATIVE DISSERTATION • THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND THE USE OF WEB 2. 0 TOOLS IN SECONDARY CLASSROOMS 18

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AN EXPLORATORY CASE STUDY ON THE VIEWS OF MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHERS REGARDING CLASSROOM AUTONOMY IN A CHANGING TESTING CULTURE by Dr. Amanda Miller ◦ Qualitative case studies tend to use a conceptual framework; however, I felt that a theoretical framework best fit my study. A theoretical framework is used when there is at least one existing theory that the study can be based on or framed around. In my particular study, I used Talcott Parson’s theory of structural functionalism to make the case or need for standardized testing in schools. I then discussed the importance of this theory and how Parson’s theory would go on to impact teacher autonomy and the teacher evaluation process. A conceptual framework is often broader in scope than a theoretical framework in that it not only uses a theory but aids the researcher in the development of a new theory or theories based on the research. The goal of my study was not to explain a phenomenon but to explore the attitudes and beliefs of the participants. As a result, I felt a theoretical framework best guided my qualitative, exploratory case study. ◦ 21

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Random thoughts about frameworks Don't be afraid to think outside the box and use a combination of theories if they relate to your study. • A recent study successfully used Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences, the quantum mechanics theory, and the brain-based learning theory to underpin and interpret a study on the correlation of music and academic attitude and achievement. 23

References Akers, R. L. , Krohn, M. D. , Lanza-Kaduce, L. , & Radosevich, M. (1979). Social learning and deviant behavior: A specific test of a general theory. American Sociological Review, 44(4), 636– 655. https: //doi. org/10. 2307/2094592 Gavin, D. (2016). Using theoretical or conceptual frameworks in a scholarly study. Johnson, J. L. , Adkins, D. , & Chauvin, S. (2020). A Review of the Quality Indicators of Rigor in Qualitative Research. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 84(1), 138– 146. https: //doi. org/10. 5688/ajpe 7120 Jones, G. R. (1983). Psychological orientation and the process of organizational socialization: An interactionist perspective. (cover story). Academy of Management Review, 8(3), 464– 474. https: //doi. org/10. 5465/AMR. 1983. 4284600 Khamung, R. , Holmes, M. V. , & Po Siu Hsu. (2019). Conceptual framework--graphic thinking--writing structure: A process empowering instructors to think proactively about research. International Journal of Learning in Higher Education, 26(1), 69– 89. https: //doi. org/10. 18848/2327 -7955/CGP/v 26 i 01/69 -89 Kivunja, C. (2018). Distinguishing between theory, theoretical framework, and conceptual framework: A systematic review of lessons from the field. International Journal of Higher Education, 7(6), 44 -53. Louis, M. R. (1980). Surprise and sense making: What newcomers experience in entering unfamiliar organizational settings. Administrative Science Quarterly, Vol. 25 No. 2, pp. 226 -251. Maxwell, J. A. (2013). Conceptual frameworks in qualitative research design: An interactive approach. Sage Publications Smith, L. , & Gibson, S. (2020). Social psychological theory and research on the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic: Introduction to the rapid response special section. The British journal of social psychology, 59(3), 571– 583. https: //doi. org/10. 1111/bjso. 12402 Turin, T. C. , Chowdhury, N. , Ferdous, M. , Rashid, R. , Vaska, M. , Rumana, N. , Rahman, N. , Lasker, M. , & Chowdhury, M. Z. (2020). Primary care access barriers faced by immigrant populations in their host countries: A systematic review protocol aiming to construct a conceptual framework using root cause analysis to capture “what leads to what. ” Journal of Primary Health Care, 12(2), 139– 148. https: //doi. org/10. 1071/HC 20006 Vinz, S. (2020, August 14). Sample theoretical framework of a dissertation. Scribbr. https: //www. scribbr. com/dissertation/theoretical-framework-example Zackoff, M. W. , Real, F. J. , Klein, M. D. , Abramson, E. L. , Li, S. -T. T. , & Gusic, M. E. (2019). Enhancing educational scholarship through conceptual frameworks: A challenge and roadmap for medical educators. Academic Pediatrics, 19(2), 135– 141. https: //doi. org/10. 1016/j. acap. 2018. 003 24