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The theoretical lens Determine the guiding framework for your

dissertation research

A theoretical framework provides the theoretical

assumptions for the larger context of a study,

and is the foundation or ‘lens’ by which a study

is developed. This framework helps to ground

the research focus under study within theoretical

underpinnings and to frame the inquiry for data

analysis and interpretation.

The theoretical contribution Determine the potential theoretical contribution of

your dissertation research

A theoretical contribution provides a

theory-driven input to current thinking

when your dissertation research study

is framed by theoretical considerations

that began with a well-defined

theoretical framework. A theoretical

framework allows for deliberation of

the theoretical contribution(s) to

current scholarship within your

discipline once you determine your key study findings. Ideally,

you will revisit the theoretical underpinnings of your study when

you describe the theoretical contribution(s) of your study findings

as you draft Chapter 5 once your study has concluded.

The Theoretical Framework Northcentral University Center for Teaching and Learning

  

Where do I start?

Consider these three

considerations to formulate

a theoretical framework:

1. Discipline/Field of Study

 What is your degree

program?

 What is your area of

specialization?

 PhD or applied doctorate?

 What is your research

focus?

2. Theory(ies)

 What are relevant theories

aligned with your

discipline?

 Which theory(ies)

resonated with you in

course work?

 What theory(ies) have past

researchers used?

3. Theorist(s)

 Who was/were the original

theorist(s)?

 Who adapted the

theory(ies) to your

discipline?

As you begin, determine with your Dissertation Chair

whether your dissertation research study is best

guided by a theoretical framework or a conceptual

framework (see also ‘The Conceptual Framework’]

Review the Chapter 1 requirements in the NCU DP/DM Template

Checklist:

☐ Identify the guiding framework. Present the key concepts, briefly explain how they are

related, and present the propositions that are relevant to this study.

☐ Explain how the framework guided the research decisions, including the development of

the problem statement, purpose statement, and research questions.

☐ If more than one framework is guiding the study, integrate them, rather than describing

them independently. Do not select a separate framework for each variable/construct under

examination.

☐ Do not exceed two pages. A more thorough discussion of the theoretical/conceptual

framework will be included in Chapter 2.

From 2017 NCU Dissertation_Proposal_Manuscript_Template

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References

Casanave, C. P., & Li, Y. (2015). Novices’ struggles with conceptual and theoretical framing in writing

dissertations and papers for publication. Publications, 3(2), 104-119. doi:10.3390/publications3020104

Grant, C., & Osanloo, A. (2015). Understanding, selecting, and integrating a theoretical framework in

dissertation research: Creating the blueprint for your house. Administrative Issues Journal: Connecting

Education, Practice, and Research, 4(2). doi: 10.5929/2014.4.2.9