Conceptual Frameworks and Theoretical Solutions

This week’s topics

Conceptual Frameworks and Theoretical Solutions

1. Conceptual model building
2. Mapping theoretical constructs to organizational problems
3. Establishing propositions
4. Justifying exploratory versus confirmatory research
5. Theoretical Framework vs Conceptual Framework In Research: Simple Explainer (With Examples)
6. Research questions: Descriptive, exploratory, explanatory and evaluative questions

What you will be able to do

• 2.2 Evaluate various theories and choose a specific theory for explaining the observed phenomenon.
• 2.3 Develop a theoretical solution for the identified problem and justify the need for further research.

Activity

Start with this week’s 2 videos, then: Seminar, guided reading and a short written task: evaluate various theories and choose a specific theory for explaining the observed phenomenon.

Study materials

Videos

• Theoretical Framework vs Conceptual Framework In Research: Simple Explainer (With Examples) · YouTube · Grad Coach · 9 min · for registered students
• Research questions: Descriptive, exploratory, explanatory and evaluative questions · YouTube · Mark Saunders on Research Methods · 7 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
• Principles of Sociological Inquiry, ch. 5: Research Design · PDF · Saylor Academy, textbook chapter; pp. 51–65 · for registered students