The Theoretical Framework is like everything in life if you want to apply or exercise in some job, research or simply for study purposes. It is necessary to know its concept and not only that but also to know how to interpret it. That is why we will start this article with the definition of the topic.
We have to understand and be clear about one thing. The theoretical framework is constituted by the collection of background information, theoretical considerations and research that have been carried out prior to the application of a new project. Since these are going to provide a livelihood to the new research project that is intended to be carried out.
It is worth mentioning that it is not something exclusive to a research project, since an experiment, hypothesis and analysis also deserves to be accompanied by a theoretical background. In this article we will put a lot of emphasis on research projects since it is the most common for a student.
When a research project is supported by a well-founded theoretical framework. It will provide you with a better interpretation of the data that results in the work, in addition to helping in the formulation of a conclusion.
The Reference Framework.
- For the reasons mentioned, it is that the theoretical framework is also known as a frame of reference. Because it precisely works as a conceptual support in the proposed theory. As well as the theoretical concepts that are used to present the problem of your research project or, in any case, a degree thesis. For example:
- One of the main characteristics of the theoretical framework is to have a theoretical language. Where it is clearly reflected, the discipline to which the chosen field of study frames. It is also vital that the relevant phenomena and concepts that are intended to be studied are shown. Taking into account that the work seeks to deepen the subject of study.
- A well-founded theoretical framework will allow the research to be visualized in a coherent and organized way. In addition to being able to demonstrate, justify, interpret and support the hypotheses raised in the project.
- As well as support your results. In turn, it allows the conclusions given in your project to be formulated in a reliable way. In some cases it will also allow you to re-think questions of higher levels of depth and abstraction.
Background of an Investigation.
- Everything that precedes or is prior to something can be called antecedent. In turn, an antecedent can refer to a circumstance, saying, action or fact. That allows to assess or understand events that will occur later.
- It can be seen that the concept of antecedent is closely related to the theoretical framework. Especially because the latter consists in the use of research works that have been carried out prior to ours. Which have or share with a clear similarity and relationship to ours.
- That is why when we talk about background, we are referring to this set of previous works. What were done by other institutions or authors on a specific topic of study.
- It is considered antecedent to the degree works, promotion works, presentations and results of institutional investigations. As well as postgraduate theses, articles or specialized magazines. And even conferences.
- For obvious reasons, the background is situated in the theoretical framework of a research project. It is there where all the previous work that is added to the project that is postulated will be analyzed. In order to review the objectives, results and methodological approach.
- By adding an antecedent, it is guaranteed or facilitated to be able to determine the current state of knowledge that is possessed in the area of study treated. And the most relevant advances together with their contributions.
The Parts that make up the Theoretical Framework.
In general, the theoretical framework is divided into two parts, these are:
- First Part: The first part of the theoretical framework is where it is exposed in detail. All the theoretical concepts that are used to present the problem in the investigation. It is in this part where the definition of the basic terms, theoretical bases, bibliography, types of data and background is included.
- Second Part: In the second part of the theoretical framework, the wording and interpretation of the problem is sought. Under the jurisdiction of the theoretical that was previously exposed in the first part.
Importance of the Theoretical Framework.
- In case you still consider at this point that it is not important to add a theoretical framework to a research project. Next we will illustrate why it is and with some examples.
- One of the main importance of the theoretical framework is in these works that are directed to the community. Progress against cancer, AIDS, Alzheimer’s and countless specific problems that affect the health and vitality of an individual are appreciated in the fight against various diseases. It is possible from the experiences, the identification of errors and the analysis of results. That they find successes to continue with the search for a solution to the disease treated.
- This does not have to be limited to the area of medicine and health, it must be taken into account that the theoretical framework is a postulate that can be present in various fields. Pretending to be able to explain small economic and social questions or to explain the beginning and formation of life. Even explaining the origin of the universe with theories like the big bang.
- In itself, we want to imply that it is not something limited to a specific area of study.
The Role of the Theoretical Framework in Research.
- In simple words and without getting too complicated, we could say that all research work begins with a theory. And in turn, all theory starts with an idea as its base, that is. We can affirm that if there were no ideas that tried to explain the problems that arise around us (Framed in a scientific context). We would not have evolved to what we are today.
- It is known that it is not always easy to validate a theory. For this, it drags a series of tests, experiments and studies that must be carried out in advance to establish its veracity. But if a “Line of succession” is maintained over time, it is possible to appreciate that new knowledge is generated in the results obtained.
- In summary to everything contributed throughout this article. We invite you to keep in mind the inclusion of a theoretical framework in your research project, research paper or degree thesis. Well, as we have illustrated, its importance is clear and its participation is essential.
- You have to see it as a support and base from which the project that is being proposed starts. And in turn it is the way in which it contributes to the evolution of the study. Keep in mind that just as you used the work of another author as background. In the future your project will have the same purpose and utility for another person and in this way continue advancing. Thus maintaining that line of succession that we mentioned before.
- Without further ado, we will close this publication, but not before encouraging you to continue reading one of our various posts that are among the different categories that make up, As can be the following article on « How to jump into the Void «, which we are sure will capture your attention.