Developing a Theoretical Framework

Find this and many other dissertation guides and resources at www.dissertationrecipes.com Developing a theoretical framework that guides the logic of what you are doing in a dissertation or thesis can be challenging. Trochim (2006) contends there are two domains in research—theory and observation. Trochim refers to theory as what is going on inside the head of the researcher, while observation is what goes on in the real world where data are collected. A good theory or set of theories can guide every aspect of your study from formulation of the research questions and problem statement, through discussing the findings of your data analyses and writing the conclusions. The theoretical framework provides a wellsupported rationale to conduct your study, and helps the reader understand your perspective. A good theoretical framework assures the reader that the type of investigation you propose is not based solely on your personal instincts or guesses, but rather informed by established theory and empirical facts obtained from credible studies.