How to Develop a Thesis' Conceptual Framework

Maria Magher reports:

"A conceptual framework is a bit like a recipe or a blueprint. It provides an outline of how you plan to conduct the research for your thesis, but it goes further than that by also positioning your work within the larger field of research. Writing a conceptual framework can not only help to guide your thesis to ensure that your research stays on track, but it also helps to guide fellow researchers or advisers who are analyzing your thesis...Before you can start your own research, you need to understand what research has already been conducted on your topic of interest. Your thesis should always be new research that helps to advance your field of study. You may find that someone has already explored the question you have in mind. Conducting the literature review can help you to refine your central argument or hypothesis. You must also conduct the literature review to be able to place your work within the larger field of study in your conceptual framework. Your framework should introduce the relevant research and show how your work will help to advance the field...Conceptual frameworks are often visual in nature and allow those reading the framework to understand the flow of your research. You can present this in whatever way makes the most sense for your work, which can include a flow chart, mind map or diagram. For each component of your research, you should show the variables that influence it...The more detailed you are with your diagram, the more thorough your conceptual framework will be...Not all conceptual frameworks have to include a diagram or graphic. You can present the same information by writing a narrative. Your narrative should summarize the variables influencing your research and explore how they may change your hypothesis. The narrative should also explain the basic methodology for your research. Even if you include a diagram in your conceptual framework, a narrative should also be included explaining these details for those who prefer more in-depth information. Use bolded headers to separate the sections of your narrative and to create a visual hierarchy of information...As you begin your research, you may find that certain elements of your conceptual framework no longer work. You may discover new variables, or you may learn that your hypothesis is incorrect. You may find additional research that challenges your own theory. You should return to your framework and revise it as necessary. The document is not fixed in stone. It should be considered an adaptable guide as you work through your thesis. It should be seen as a partner to your thesis and should be updated as necessary."