Week 5: The Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

The theoretical framework is a critical element of your work. A theoretical framework is the general representation of relationships in your problem and is based on existing theory. The conceptual framework is your idea on how the problem should be explored, and it is generally based on a theory. The difference between the two is the scope. Theory is broad; concept is narrow.

In most research studies, your framework can be either theoretical or conceptual in nature. For the purposes of this project, you will most likely follow a conceptual framework, which is your idea on how the research problem will be explored (although you could have both).

For example:

Theoretical framework: Stimulus is applied to elicit a response
Conceptual framework: A new teaching method is applied to elicit improvement in midterm test scores.

In this section of your change project paper, state the perspective through which the problem and/or phenomenon may be explored, and include the following:

Select a minimum of two theories.
Identify the process and logic in selecting these theoretical frameworks or conceptual frameworks for your study.
Discuss how each theory or model applies to the individual project.

Present the framework guiding your study.

Describe the assumptions of the framework.
Describe each key component of the framework.

Discuss how each element of the phenomenon applies to the framework.

Apply each element of the theory to the elements of the phenomenon under study.
Develop the rationale for the sample selection criteria.

Discuss, analyze, and critique pertinent research that uses the framework.

Remember that research never proves theory. Your research project can only support or refute the theoretical propositions you are using as your framework. But if you do not use theory or conceptual frameworks in your research, you may not be able to put your findings in a context that could strengthen the nursing education profession!

This section should be 3–4 pages in length, not including the cover or reference page. You must reference a minimum of 3 scholarly articles.

Use current APA format to style your paper and to cite your sources. Review the rubric for more information on how the assignment will be graded.

***** ATTACHED ARE THE PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENTS PART OF THIS ONGOING PROJECT***

Rubric

NURS_691A_DE – NURS 691-A Rubric Week 5: Theoretical Framework

Criteria
Ratings
Pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeContent

60 to >49.2 pts

Meets Expectations

Identifies independent theories or conceptual models that relate to the change project topic and describes how they will be applied to the change project. Thoroughly discusses how each element of the phenomenon applies to the framework. Clearly applies each element of the theory to the elements of the phenomenon under study. Develops the rationale for the sample selection criteria, and expertly discusses, analyzes, and critiques pertinent research that uses the framework.

49.2 to >45.0 pts

Approaches Expectations

Identifies independent theories or conceptual models that relate to the change project topic and describes how they will be applied to the change project. Discusses how most elements of the phenomenon apply to the framework, but may be lacking specific details. Attempts to apply each element of the theory to the elements of the phenomenon under study but may not make clear connections. Develops the rationale for the sample selection criteria, and briefly discusses pertinent research that uses the framework, but may be somewhat lacking in analysis and/or critique.

45 to >35.4 pts

Falls Below Expectations

Identifies independent theories or conceptual models but they may only indirectly relate to the change project topic. May not discuss how elements of the phenomenon apply to the framework. Connections to each element of the theory to the elements of the phenomenon are vague and unclear. The rationale for the sample selection criteria and pertinent research that uses the framework may be missing or severely lacking in analysis and/or critique.

35.4 to >0 pts

Does Not Meet Expectations

Fails to identify a theory or conceptual model or it is written in such a way that no relationships can be identified.

60 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeOrganization

7.5 to >6.15 pts

Meets Expectations

Content is well written throughout. Information is well organized and clearly communicated.

6.15 to >5.63 pts

Approaches Expectations

Content is overly wordy or lacking in specific language. Information is reasonably organized and communicated.

5.63 to >4.43 pts

Falls Below Expectations

Content is disorganized in many places and it lacks clarity.

4.43 to >0 pts

Does Not Meet Expectations

Content lacks clarity and information is disorganized, or may be an outline or a list.

7.5 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAPA Format/Mechanics

7.5 to >6.15 pts

Meets Expectations

Follows all the requirements related to format, length, source citations, and layout. Assignment is free of spelling and grammatical errors.

6.15 to >5.63 pts

Approaches Expectations

Follows length requirement and most of the requirements related to format, source citations, and layout. Assignment is mostly free of spelling and grammatical errors.

5.63 to >4.43 pts

Falls Below Expectations

Follows most of the requirements related to format, length, source citations, and layout. Assignment contains some spelling and grammatical errors.

4.43 to >0 pts

Does Not Meet Expectations

Does not follow format, length, source citations, and layout requirements. Assignment contains many spelling and grammatical errors.

7.5 pts

Total Points: 75