Concept of Conceptual Framework – In its most common sense, methodology is the study of research methods. However, the term can also refer to the methods themselves or to the philosophical discussion of associated background assumptions. A method is a structured procedure for bringing about a certain goal, like acquiring knowledge or verifying knowledge claims. This normally involves various steps, like choosing a sample, collecting data from this sample, and interpreting the data. The study of methods concerns a detailed description and analysis of these processes. It includes evaluative aspects by comparing different methods.
In this way, their benefits and drawbacks are evaluated, as well as the research goals for which they may be used. These descriptions and evaluations are predicated on philosophical background assumptions; examples include how to conceptualize the phenomena under study and what constitutes evidence in favor of or against them. In its broadest sense, methodology encompasses the discussion of these more abstract issues.
Concept of Conceptual Framework
A conceptual framework is an analytical tool with several variations and contexts. It can be applied in different categories of work where an overall picture is needed. It is used to make conceptual distinctions and organize ideas. Strong conceptual frameworks capture something real and do this in a way that is easy to remember and apply.
Definition of Conceptual Frameworks:
A conceptual framework represents the researcher’s synthesis of the literature on how to explain a phenomenon. It maps out the actions required in the course of the study, given his previous knowledge of other researchers’ point of view and his observations on the subject of research.
Or,
A Conceptual framework is a visual representation that helps to illustrate the expected relationship between cause and effect in a financial context. It is also called a Conceptual Model or research model.
Example of a conceptual framework
- Research topic
- Review of literature
- Variables isolated from the literature
Types of Conceptual Frameworks:
Several types of conceptual ‘frameworks have been identified and line up with a research purpose in the following ways:
➤ Working hypothesis – exploration or exploratory research
➤ pillar questions – exploration or exploratory research
➤ descriptive categories – description or descriptive research
➤ practical ideal type-analysis (gauging)
➤ models of operations research – decision making
➤ formal hypothesis – explanation and prediction
Read more: