Conceptual Framework

                   Conceptual Framework

                                                 Written by Ari Julianto      Conceptual Framework is one of the main part in a thesis or skripsi. It is usually placed at the end of Chapter II, but some other faculties have their own rules.
      A conceptual framework elaborates the research problem in relation to relevant literature. This section may summarize the major (dependent and independent) variables in our research. The framework may be summarized in a schematic diagram that presents the major variables and their hypothesized relationships. It should also cover the following:
a. Existing research and its relevance for our topic
b. Key ideas or constructs in our approach
c. Identify and discuss the variables related to the problem.
d. Conceptualized relationships between variables Independent variables (presumed cause), Dependent variables (presumed effect), Intervening variables (other variables that influence the effect of the independent variable)
e. Present a schematic diagram of the relationships between key variables and discuss the relationship of the elements/variables
      A conceptual framework is used in research to outline possible courses of action or to present a preferred approach to an idea or thought. Conceptual frameworks (theoretical frameworks) are a type of intermediate theory that attempt to connect to all aspects of inquiry (e.g., problem definition, purpose, literature review, methodology, data collection and analysis). Conceptual frameworks can act like maps that give coherence to empirical inquiry. Because conceptual frameworks are potentially so close to empirical inquiry, they take different forms depending upon the research question or problem.
      Several types of conceptual frameworks have been identified,such as
Working hypothesis
Descriptive Categories
Practical ideal types
Models of operations research
Formal hypotheses
      Shields and Tajalli (2006) have identified several types of conceptual frameworks (working hypotheses, descriptive categories, practical ideal type, models of operations research and formal hypotheses) for the field of public administration.
      The frameworks are linked to particular research purposes (exploration, description, gauging, decision making and explanation/prediction). When purpose and framework are aligned other aspects of empirical research such as choice of methodology (survey, interviews, analysis of existing data, direct observation, focus groups etc) and type of statistical technique become obvious.
      A conceptual framework is a graphic diagram of a research topic or thesis. The conceptual framework is basically a visual representation of the research topic. The conceptual framework discusses the thesis or hypothesis stated in the paper, expands on literature pertinent to the topic and offers a synopsis of the research paper's main points. A conceptual framework assists to structure a research paper and expand, clarify and discuss the subject fully.
      To create a conceptual framework the writer must develop research questions, examine the key variables in regards to those research questions, create a graphic diagram of the question examined, graphically describe the key elements involved, depict current research associated with questions and show relationships between all variables.
      It is important to focus on one topic or one question that will be addressed. For example, if a student's research interests lie in special education they may choose a thesis related to special education. A strong thesis statement regarding special education is important because all research conducted will be related to that statement. After the statement is formulated a conceptual framework will assist the writer in visually representing elements needed in the paper, along with clarifying subject matter to be addressed.