The Conceptual Framework: A Practical Guide

Authors

John Kulesa, Kravis Children's Hospital, Division of Hospital Medicine, New York, New York.
Spandana Induru, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Division of Hospital Medicine, Los Angeles, California.
Elizabeth Hubbard, Children's National Hospital, Division of Hospital Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia.
Priti Bhansali, Children's National Hospital, Division of Hospital Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia.

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

11-1-2024

Journal

Hospital pediatrics

Volume

14

Issue

11

DOI

10.1542/hpeds.2024-007794

Abstract

There is no single definition of the conceptual framework (CF) or consensus on how it is best applied in the research process. However, in this piece, the authors argue that the CF is a tool used to link the literature review, research methodology, and study design. The CF grounds the study in the previous literature, theories, and models. It helps the researcher articulate their rationale for why the study should be performed, justify their study design, and describe the lens through which they analyze a phenomenon or research question. Researchers may find the variable use of terms such as theory, theoretical framework, and CF to be confusing. The authors address the distinction between these terms and present strategies to develop and use the CF throughout the research process. The authors provide practical examples and resources for additional learning.

APA Citation

Kulesa, John; Induru, Spandana; Hubbard, Elizabeth; and Bhansali, Priti, "The Conceptual Framework: A Practical Guide" (2024). GW Authored Works. Paper 6072.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/gwhpubs/6072

Department

Pediatrics