Conceptual Framework and
Definition of Terms
MODULE 3:LESSON 3
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
The students are expected to:
Describe the parts of a conceptual framework;
Define terms theoretically and operationally; and
Discuss how the conceptual framework serves as the
skeleton of a research study.
What is a Conceptual Framework?
A conceptual framework is an analytical tool used to make
conceptual distinctions and organize ideas. Strong conceptual
frameworks capture something real and do this in a way that is
easy to remember and apply.
A conceptual framework is like a blueprint or a map. It provides an outline of how you plan to
conduct the research for your study, but it goes further than that by also positioning your work within the
larger field of research. Writing a conceptual framework cannot only help you keep your study on track,
but it also helps to guide other researchers and readers in analyzing your study. The most important thing
to remember about making a framework is that it is a model of what you are going to study. It also
enumerates the theories that your research questions and methodologies are anchored upon. Another
point to remember is that the conceptual framework is unique for each study. It means you can refer to
other studies to guide in your construction of a framework, but you cannot just copy others’ works. Your
conceptual framework primarily depends on the context of your study.
A conceptual framework is composed of two parts: the conceptual paradigm, and the narrative explaining your
paradigm.
The Conceptual Paradigm
The conceptual paradigm is a diagram (more of a flowchart) that visually represents
and interprets the underlying theory, principles, and concepts of a research. It is a visual
presentation of variables that interrelate with one another as perceived by the researcher
before an actual empirical investigation is done to prove its relationships.
There are two common models of paradigms: the IV-DV model and the I-P-O model.
The IV-DV (Independent Variable-Dependent Variable) model is used in experimental
research. The I-P-O (Input-Process-Output) model on the other hand is used in social
research.
IV-DV Model
Independent Variable/s Dependent Variable/s
(Write the identified (Write the identified
independent dependent variables in
variables in your your study.)
study.)
Example of IV-DV Model
Independent Variable Dependent Variable
Violent Media Aggressive
Content Thoughts in
Children
IPO MODEL
Input Process Output
(Write here the (Write the possible
(Highlight the outputs and
underlying
conditions/pro
main point of recommended activities
(not the results) of the
blems/variable your study. Those outputs
should solve/improve
s of your methodology.) the problems/conditions
study.) in your “input”.)
Example of IPO MODEL
Input Process Output
Skilled, Designs of Products
motivated and products and
happy services Services
employees
Production of Financial Results
Customer products
requirements
Delivery of
Raw materials Services
Capital
Another example of IPO Model
In order for to understand your paradigm, it is important to
write a narrative explaining the diagram. Your narrative should
summarize the variables influencing your research and explore
how they may change your hypothesis. The narrative should
also explain the basic methodology for your research.
Definition of Terms
Your research aims not only to discover new knowledge, but also to
share it with other people, regardless of their differences. As readers go
deeper in reading your research, they may encounter terms that are highly
technical or so hifalutin that it will give them questions and not answers. It
is best to define your key terms in your research study upfront so that
everyone has a shared understanding. You will be able to find ideas for
definitions by reading around the topic. There are two ways of defining
terms in research, namely: conceptual and operational.
Conceptual definition is considered to be the “textbook definition” because it is
a lexical explanation based on the concepts or knowledge related to the discipline
and widely accepted as correct.
Operational definition, on the other hand, is a definition of concept solely in
terms of the operations or methods used to produce and measure it. It defines the
basic concept through the operation used or research activity involved to measure
the concept.
Technical Definition (add.)
a descriptionof something in terms of the operations
(procedures, actions, or processes) by which it could be
observed and measured.
For example, the operational definition of anxiety could be in
terms of a test score, withdrawal from a situation, or activation of
the sympathetic nervous system.
Examples of Conceptual and Operational
Definitions
Population
Conceptual definition: a body of persons or individuals sharing a common characteristic
Operational definition: the totality of SHS students in St. Mary’s Academy
Addiction
Conceptual definition: a compulsive psychological need for a habit-forming activity
Operational definition: the habit of watching at least 5 episodes of Korean drama every day for at least 3
consecutive days
Absenteeism
Conceptual definition: chronic absence from school or work
Operational definition: being absent from school for at least 5 cumulative days or 3 consecutive days within a
span of 2 weeks
