Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks

This week’s topics

Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks

1. Critical evaluation of management theories
2. Deductive versus inductive approaches
3. Conceptual model design
4. Hypothesis development
5. Theoretical Framework vs Conceptual Framework In Research: Simple Explainer (With Examples)
6. Theory development approaches and the Research Onion
7. Deductive Vs Inductive Vs Abductive [Reasoning in Research, Concept, Difference, Examples]
8. TU Delft – Theoretical Approaches

What you will be able to do

• 2.2 Critically analyse different theoretical approaches to a research problem.
• 4.2 Create a research question, literature review and methodology.

Activity

Start with this week’s 4 videos, then: Seminar, guided reading and a short written task: critically analyse different theoretical approaches to a research problem.

Study materials

Videos

• Theoretical Framework vs Conceptual Framework In Research: Simple Explainer (With Examples) · YouTube · Grad Coach · 9 min · for registered students
• Theory development approaches and the Research Onion · YouTube · Mark Saunders on Research Methods · 8 min · for registered students
• Deductive Vs Inductive Vs Abductive [Reasoning in Research, Concept, Difference, Examples] · YouTube · Research Tube · 6 min · for registered students
• TU Delft – Theoretical Approaches · YouTube · TU Delft · 4 min · for registered students

Further resources

• MIT OpenCourseWare 15.347 Doctoral Seminar in Research Methods I (Fall 2004) · Reading · MIT OpenCourseWare, course · for registered students
• Research Methods Knowledge Base (Trochim, hosted by Conjointly) · Reading · Other, textbook · for registered students
• The Magenta Book: Central Government guidance on evaluation (HM Treasury, 2026 update) · PDF · GOV.UK, guidance; 160 pages · for registered students