Formulating the Theoretical Framework

Cornista, Jamie Cruz, Joshua NoelDe los Reyes, DerekMendoza, MartinTingzon, Carly

Theoretical FrameworkA theoretical framework consists of concepts, together with their definitions, and existing theory/theories that are used for your particular study

What are they for?Theoretical frameworks provide the organization for the study. It guides the researcher in the interpretations of the results.

Theoretical Framework vs. Conceptual Framework

Theoretical frameworks are based on specific theories. If the researcher is not able to find a

suitable theory for the research, then he or she may construct a conceptual framework.

Theoretical Framework● Self-Determination Theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000)

Identifying Key Variables

Where do you find the key variables?

Research ProblemThe research problem anchors your entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your theoretical framework.

Literature ReviewA careful examination of a body of literature pointing toward the answer to your research question.

Variables● A concept to be investigated and can

be empirically measured. Variables are commonly classified into three types: Independent, Dependent and Intervening

Classifications of Variables● Independent - Determinant or

explanatory factor for any change in the variable.

● Dependent - Precedent or effect factor which reveals changes caused by the independent variable.

● Intervening - Comes between the dependent and independent variable. Can influence both the dependent and independent variables.

Hypothesizing the relationships of key

variables

Where to begin?● This part entails extensive reading and

understanding of the literature. Look for studies cited that may support the research problem.

● Alternatively, you may also look into research gaps as a basis for the hypothesis.

● Integrate the variables based on the literature given.

Hypothesis Development

What is a Hypothesis?

Hypothesisis an educated guess which can be proven empirically

Important things to know about the hypothesis

● must clearly express the relationships between two or more variables to be investigated.

● measurable, devoid of value judgements, unambiguous

Null Hypothesis● Statement of the

Hypothesis● Expresses no

relationship or no difference between the two variables

● An assertion that is hoped to be rejected

• Opposite of Ho• Expresses that there

is a relationship or a difference between the two variables

• If the Ho is rejected then Ha is accepted

Alternative Hypothesis

Formats for the Hypothesis Statements• Descriptive

• Explanatory or causal

• Relational

Descriptive formatis a declarative proposition that predicts the existence, size, form, and distribution of variables, or characterizes what is typical in a group

The sales manager of X bar would want to know if the majority of his customers are college students or working professionals.

Ho: μS = μP. The number of college students and working professionals are equal.Ha: μS ≠ μP. The number of college students and working professionals are not equal.

Explanatory/ Causal formatis an “if-then” proposition. It states that the existence of, or change in, one or more variables (usually called the independent variable) leads to an effect on the other variable (usually the dependent variable)

In this study, the researcher for XX Company would want to know if an increase in bonuses given will reduce the turnover rate for this year. Ho: B = TO. The 25% increase in bonus this year will reduce the employee turnover by 50%.

Ha: B ≠ TO. The 25% increase in bonus this year will reduce the employee turnover by 50%.

Relational formatis a statement of conjecture expressing directional or nondirectional relationships, such as existence of difference or correlations (or that the variables occur together in some specified manner without an implication that one causes the other)

This study wishes to test the following. Ho: The levels of job satisfaction within the company is not affected by the following:

1. Years of Service2. Educational BackgroundHa: The levels of job satisfaction

within the company is affected by the following:

1. Years of Service2. Educational Background

Summary1. Examine your thesis title and research problem. The research problem anchors your entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your theoretical framework.

2. Brainstorm on what you consider to be the key variables in your research. Answer the question, what factors contribute to the presumed effect?

3. Review related literature to find answers to your research question.

Summary4. List the constructs and variables that might be relevant to your study. Group these variables into independent and dependent categories.

5. Review the key social science theories that are introduced to you in your course readings and choose the theory or theories that can best explain the relationships between the key variables in your study.