What is the difference between conceptual model and theoretical framework

The theoretical framework helps explain why the current research problem exists while using the lens of a relevant theory from existing literature. However, it is believed that the research paradigm determines the role of a theory in the research undertaking. In fact, both explain the future course of the research study justifying the research enterprise with the aim to make sure that the findings are more meaningful, acceptable and generalizable. The PhD scholars and novice researchers always face troubles for their misconception of what constitutes a theoretical framework.

Some of them believe that the theoretical framework is used for qualitative research as this paradigm produces detailed and comprehensive information about an area from where one can discern a number of themes and patterns. While the conceptual framework is used only for quantitative research studies developed subsequently, outlining the mental image of the themes and patterns that are emerging from the data.

Used interchangeably, the constructs of a theoretical and conceptual framework is generally regarded as one and the same; nevertheless, there is a slight difference between the two. Though these frameworks are closely associated, they have characteristics that make them distinctly separate from each other. Some of the key distinction between theoretical and conceptual frameworks has been given in the following:.

This article was intended to delineate key differences between theoretical and conceptual frameworks so that the research scholars must succinctly understand and reflect the choice of a theory, its constructs, rational and model in the research proposal and the PhD thesis accordingly.

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This article is mainly focused on the following areas: Definition of a theoretical and conceptual framework Importance of a theoretical and conceptual framework in research What t heoretical and conceptual frameworks mean?

Similarities between theoretical and conceptual frameworks Problems faced by novice researchers conceptualising theoretical or conceptual frameworks Difference between a theoretical and conceptual Framework These areas are discussed in the following section in detail. Definition of a theoretical and conceptual framework A well-defined theoretical or conceptual framework provides the guiding framework for the PhD dissertation.

Importance of a theoretical and conceptual framework in research A theoretical or conceptual framework provides a strong evidence of academic standards and scholastic functions.

What t heoretical and conceptual frameworks mean? Similarities between theoretical and conceptual frameworks The theoretical framework helps explain why the current research problem exists while using the lens of a relevant theory from existing literature.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Skip to content Home Resources Library. What is the difference between the conceptual and the theoretical framework? Examples of the Theoretical and the Conceptual Framework The difference between theoretical framework and conceptual framework can be further clarified by the following examples on both concepts: Theoretical Framework: Stimulus elicits response.

Trending Project topics in Political Science. Thank you. Very well then. Thanks indeed. It helps a lot. Thank you by Lally T. Very well explained. Thanks a ton! Is there supposed to be an illustrative example? Good and clear. But you do not have any reference. Very helpful brief analysis of the difference between Theoretical and Conceptual Frame works. Conceptual frameworks are often laid out at the beginning of a paper or an experiment description for a reader to understand the methods used.

The difference between theoretical and conceptual frameworks is scale -- referring to the Big Ideas and the smaller ones. The conceptual framework is a set of specific ideas that can be used within the larger theoretical framework.

A theoretical framework may contain many ideas that are not explored within the paper or experiment it structures. However, by definition, all aspects of the conceptual framework are used in the process of research. Note that a theoretical framework often informs the conceptual framework. For instance, a Freudian psychologist is likely to place a great deal of importance on early childhood data from their subjects. On the other hand, the theoretical framework may also determine what ideas are not considered by a conceptual framework: A behaviorist is unlikely to consider a subject's dreams.

When used as a separate term, "theoretical framework" always refers to the larger ideas governing research and study.

However, the terms "theoretical" and "conceptual" are often confused or used interchangeably to designate all ideas used to define and shape an intellectual study.