Conceptual Framework
A conceptual framework is the justification for the application of a theory to a problem.
Formal Definitions
- Definition #1 - Conceptual frameworks represent ways of thinking about a problem or a study, or ways of representing how complex things work the way they do. There are 13 key points:
- Conceptual frameworks help understand (illuminate) problems.
- Different conceptual frameworks emphasise (magnify) different aspects of the problem or elements of the solutions.
- More than one conceptual framework may be relevant to a given situation.
- Any given conceptual framework, or combination of frameworks, can lead to a variety of alternative solutions.
- Conceptual frameworks can come from theories, models or evidence-based best practices.
- Scholars need to apply (not just pay lip service to) the principles outlined in the conceptual framework(s) selected.
- Conceptual frameworks help identify important variables and their potential relationships; this also means that some variables are disregarded.
- Conceptual frameworks are dynamic entities and benefit from being challenged and altered as needed.
- Conceptual frameworks allow scholars to build upon one another’s work and allow individuals to develop programmes of research.
- Programmatic, conceptually based research helps accumulate deeper understanding over time and thus moves the field forward.
- Relevant conceptual frameworks can be found outside one’s specialty or field.
- Considering competing conceptual frameworks can maximise your chances of selecting the most appropriate framework for your problem or situation while guarding against premature, inappropriate or sub-optimal choices.
- Scholars are responsible for making explicit in their publications the assumptions and principles contained in the conceptual framework(s) they use - Bordage
- Definition #2 - Conceptual frameworks (CFs) are ways of:
- Thinking about a problem or question
- Representing how complex things work - Bordage, et al.
- Definition #3 - The justification for why a given study should be conducted. The conceptual framework (1) describes the state of known knowledge, usually through a literature review; (2) identifies gaps in our understanding of a phenomenon or problem; and (3) outlines the methodological underpinnings of the research project. It is constructed to answer 2 questions: “Why is this research important?” and “What contributions might these findings make to what is already known?” - Varpio, et al.
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- Bordage, G. (2009). Conceptual frameworks to illuminate and magnify. Medical Education, 43(4), 312–319. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2923.2009.03295.x
- Bordage, G., Lineberry, M., & Yudkowsky, R. (2016). Conceptual Frameworks to Guide Research and Development (R&D) in Health Professions Education. Academic Medicine.
- Varpio, L., Paradis, E., Uijtdehaage, S., & Young, M. (2019). The Distinctions Between Theory, Theoretical Framework, and Conceptual Framework. Academic Medicine, 95(7), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1097/acm.0000000000003075
- Zackoff, M. W., Real, F. J., Abramson, E. L., Li, S. T., Klein, M. D., & Gusic, M. E. (2019). Enhancing Educational Scholarship Through Conceptual Frameworks: A Challenge and Roadmap for Medical Educators. Acad Pediatr, 19(2), 135–141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acap.2018.08.003