Social Research Design (AERS 282)

Nelita M. Lalican Associate Professor ASC-CA

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Formulating a Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework

Theoretical/Conceptual Framework The use of a review of literature in organizing a theoretical/conceptual framework Meaning of empirical analysis

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Theoretical Framework
The theoretical framework dwells on theories that represent the results of several other studies on how phenomena occur. The theoretical framework of the study is a structure that can hold or support a theory of a research work. It presents the theory which explains why the problem under study exists. It helps the researcher see clearly the variables of the study while providing him with a framework for data analysis.

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Theoretical Framework
It is considered essential in preparing a research proposal using descriptive and experimental methods. It is also said to be the researchers lens, as it provides a vantage point, a perspective, through which the researcher views the problem. It is able to sharpen focus and consequently increase clarity to the problem at hand. It provides a basis for including and excluding literature and research that is actually related to the inquiry by identifying the variables of greatest interest and concern.
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Theoretical Framework
After formulating the theoretical framework, the researcher has to develop the conceptual framework of the study. A concept is an image or symbolic representation of an abstract idea. While the theoretical framework is the theory on which the study is based, the conceptual framework is the operationalization of the theory.
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Conceptual Framework
Presents specic and well-dened concepts, which are called constructs. Presents the relationships between the specic concepts that may be studied. Its function is similar with theoretical framework (TF) because the constructs used are derived from the abstract concepts of TF.

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Concepts
Building blocks of theory Mental construction of reality and not reality itself Exist as symbols of empirical phenomena

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Functions of concept
Foundation of communication Provide scientists a perfective Allow scientist to classify and generalize Serve as components of theories

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Conceptual Framework
A conceptual framework is the researchers idea on how the research problem will have to be investigated. It describes the relationship between specic variables identied in the research.

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Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework embodies the specic direction by which the study will have to be undertaken based on the researchers own position on the problem. It may be an adaptation of a model used in a previous study, with modications to suit the inquiry. Aside from showing the direction of the study, the researcher can show the relationships
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How to develop the theoretical framework

1. Examine your thesis or eld study title or topic and research problem.
Example: Farmers conception on municipal enterprise development in Samal Bataan, 2010.

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2 rainstorm on what you consider to be the B key variables in your research. Answer the question: What factors contribute to the presumed effect (dependent variable)? Examples : What are the determinants of business establishment sustainability in the municipality? What factors inuence the adoption of zero budget natural farming? What are the possible municipal enterprises that can be fdeveloped?
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3. List the constructs and variables that might be relevant to your study. Group variables into independent and dependent. In our example thesis topic above, these would be: Dependent variable: Farmers conception of municipal enterprise Independent: Farmers sources of information, perceived credibility of source, technology, capital and market.
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Recommended procedure for the conceptual framework

1. Cite your conceptual framework or paradigm; 2. Identify your variables;

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3. Point out the dependent and intervening variables; 4. Show the direction of the study.

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Example

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Empirical Analysis
The word empirical means information gained by experience, observation, or experiment. The central theme in scientic method is that all evidence must be empirical which means it is based on evidence. In scientic method the word empirical refers to the use of working hypothesis that can be tested using observation and experiment.
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OBJECTIVES OF THE EMPIRICAL RESEARCH

Go beyond simply reporting observations Promote environment for improved understanding Combine extensive research with detailed case study Prove relevance of theory by working in a real world environment (context)

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REASONS FOR USING EMPIRICAL RESEARCH METHODS Traditional or superstitional knowledge has been trusted for too long Empirical Research methods help integrating research and practice Educational process or Instructional science needs to progress

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ADVANTAGES OF EMPIRICAL METHODS

Understand and respond more appropriately to dynamics of situations Provide respect to contextual differences Help to build upon what is already known Provide opportunity to meet standards of professional research In a real case scenario, the collection of evidence to prove or counter any theory involve planned research designs in order to collect empirical data.
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ADVANTAGES OF EMPIRICAL METHODS

Various statistical formulas such uncertainty coefficient, regression, ttest, chi-square and different types of ANOVA (analysis of variance) have been extensively used to form logical and valid conclusion. However, it is important to remember that any of these statistical formulas dont produce proof and can only support a hypothesis, reject it, or do neither.
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