WHAT IS A RESEARCH FRAMEWORK?

 Designing the entire research framework means creating a structured plan that guides your research from start to finish. It is like a blueprint that ensures your study is logical, focused, and valid. Below is a detailed explanation of what a research framework should include and how it helps in designing the entire research process:

 A research framework refers to the overall structure or plan of the research that includes the theoretical basis, methodology, tools, and variables that define how the study is to be conducted. It includes two key components:

  1. Theoretical Framework – Derived from existing theories and literature.
  2. Conceptual Framework – Shows the relationship between the variables in your study.

 WHY THE FRAMEWORK SHOULD DESIGN THE ENTIRE RESEARCH?

Because it:

  • Aligns research questions, objectives, and hypotheses
  • Guides data collection and analysis
  • Ensures validity and reliability
  • Helps in interpreting results meaningfully
  • Supports publication and academic rigor

 ELEMENTS THAT A RESEARCH FRAMEWORK SHOULD DESIGN

Component

Explanation

1. Research Problem

The issue or gap the study seeks to address. Should be clear, specific, and researchable.

2. Research Objectives

Specific goals that the research aims to achieve.

3. Research Questions

Questions that the study will answer; must align with the objectives.

4. Hypotheses (if applicable)

Predictions based on theory or previous research.

5. Theoretical Framework

Refers to existing theories that support the study. E.g., Theory of Planned Behavior, Resource-Based View.

6. Conceptual Framework

A diagram or model showing the variables and their assumed relationships.

7. Variables

Independent, dependent, control, moderating, or mediating variables must be defined clearly.

8. Research Design

Type of study (e.g., descriptive, exploratory, explanatory, causal, experimental, longitudinal, cross-sectional).

9. Population & Sampling

Whom you will study (target population), and how you will select them (sampling method).

10. Data Collection Methods

Tools such as surveys, interviews, observation, secondary data; including tools’ validity and reliability.

11. Data Analysis Tools

Quantitative (SPSS, Excel, AMOS, R, Stata) or qualitative tools (NVivo, coding frameworks). Statistical methods like regression, ANOVA, thematic analysis.

12. Ethical Considerations

Confidentiality, informed consent, data protection, academic integrity.

13. Limitations & Delimitations

Boundaries of the study in terms of scope, time, geography, methodology.

14. Timeline/Plan

Gantt chart or project schedule to show how and when the study will be completed.

15. Expected Outcomes

What the study might find and its implications.

 VISUAL EXAMPLE OF CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK (Simplified)

[Digital Literacy] ──►

                     │

[Social Influence] ──┼──► [Intention to Invest] ──► [Actual Investment Behavior]

                     │

[Perceived Risk] ────►

This simple model (based on TPB) shows how independent variables influence investment behavior through mediating intention.

 TIPS TO BUILD A GOOD FRAMEWORK

  • Start with the literature review – Identify existing theories.
  • Link variables to objectives – Ensure clarity and logical flow.
  • Use diagrams – To visually represent relationships.
  • Justify your choices – Explain why certain methods or theories are selected.
  • Ensure consistency – All parts of your research (problem, objectives, questions, hypotheses, methods) should align with your framework.

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