Research Methods –STA630 VU
© Copyright Virtual University of Pakistan 30
Lesson 10
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
A theoretical framework is conceptual model of how one theorizes or makes logical sense of the
relationships among several factors that have been identified as important to the problem under study.
These factors which may also be called as variables may have been identified through such processes as
interviews with informants, observations, and literature survey. The theoretical framework discusses the
interrelationships among the variables that are considered to be integral to the dynamics of the situation
being investigated. Developing such a conceptual framework helps us to postulate or hypothesize and
test certain relationships and thus improve our understanding of the dynamics of situation.
From the theoretical framework, then, testable hypotheses can be developed to examine whether theory
formulated is valid or not. The hypothesized relationships can thereafter be tested through appropriate
statistical analysis.
Hence the entire research rests on the basis of the theoretical framework. Even if the testable
hypotheses not necessarily generated, developing a good theoretical framework is central to examining
the problem under investigation.
There is a relationship between the literature survey and the theoretical framework whereby the former
provides a solid foundation for developing the latter. Literature survey helps in the identification of the
relevant variables, as determined by the previous researches. This in addition to other logical
connections that can be conceptualized forms the basis for the theoretical model. The theoretical
framework elaborates the relationships among the variables, explains the theory underlying these
relations, and describes the nature and direction of the relationships. Just as the literature survey sets the
stage for a good theoretical framework, this in turn provides the logical base for developing useable
hypotheses.
From the preceding discussion it can be concluded that a theoretical framework is none other than
identifying the network of relationships among the variables considered important to the study of any
given problem situation. Therefore, the theoretical framework offers the conceptual foundation for
constructing the edifice of research that is to taken in hand.
Specifically a theoretical framework:
• Elaborates the relationship among the variables.
• Explains the logic underlying these relationships.
• Describes the nature, and direction of the relationships.
In the review of literature it is possible that you may come across a number of theories readily available
for adoption as theoretical framework for the study under consideration. Theories are supposed to be
generic whereby they could be applicable to different situations. Some concepts borrowed from such
theories may have to be replaced with arguments, logic explicated, and the framework may be readily
available. It is also possible that the researcher may combine more than one existing theory and come
up with an entirely new framework, and in the process may develop new concepts as well.
However, in the absence of the ready made conceptual framework the researcher may venture to
develop his/her own framework. Though, the researcher has to depend a lot on the existing body of
literature for the identification of variables as well as for developing a rigorous logical argumentation
for the interrelationships among different variables.
Whether the researcher uses a ready-made theoretical framework or explicates an entirely new one,
there are some essential features that have to be taken into consideration. These features may be called
as components of a theoretical framework.
The Components of the Theoretical Framework
A good theoretical framework identifies and labels the important variables in the situation that are
relevant to the problem identified. It logically describes the interconnections among these variables.
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