Qbrdm2

The conceptual model Determine the guiding

framework for your

dissertation research

As noted in your dissertation

template, a conceptual framework

provides the detailed

components/variables identifying

interrelationships in and across the components. While a

conceptual framework is often referred to interchangeably with a

theoretical framework, it maintains a distinct purpose. A

conceptual framework is used to clarify concepts, organize ideas,

and identify relationships with which to frame a study. Concepts

are logically developed and organized to support an overall

framework and often exhibited graphically within dissertation

research.

The conceptual contribution Determine the potential

contribution of your

conceptual framework

A conceptual framework provides an

illustration of the interrelated ideas or

aspects of your variables/constructs, and

often organized using existing models.

Ideally, you will revisit your conceptual

framework of your study when you

describe the implications of your study findings as you draft Chapter 5

once your study has concluded. This allows for a consideration of your

framework as a deliberation of the influence of the framework in light of

your key findings and within the context of current scholarship within

your discipline.

The Conceptual Framework Northcentral University Center for Teaching and Learning

  

Where do I start?

Consider these three

considerations to formulate

a conceptual framework:

1. Discipline/Field of Study

 What is your degree

program?

 What is your area of

specialization?

 What is your research

focus?

 What is your method

paradigm?

2. Principle(s); Model(s)

 What are relevant

principle(s), model(s), or

ideas aligned with your

discipline?

 Which principle(s) or

model(s) resonated with

you in course work?

 What principle(s) and/or

model(s) have past

researchers used?

3. Authorship

 Who was/were the original

model author(s)?

 How will the model(s) be

adapted/utilized for your

framework?

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 Theoretical Framework’]

Chapter 1: Conceptual Framework

Chapter 5: Implications

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

Berman, J., & Smyth, R. (2015). Conceptual frameworks in the doctoral research process a pedagogical

model. Innovations in Education & Teaching International, 52(2), 125-136. doi10.108014703297.2013.80901

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