Application of Theoretical Framework in a Research Project
The research analysis is usually conducted to verify a particular theoretical prediction, and the conceptual content of the research study may be constructed only according to the principles interrelated with the ideas contained in a theoretical context. In this way, the notion of theoretical framework refers to the body of information that already exists while the definition of conceptual framework refers to the ideas that a researcher may develop to resolve a research problem.
Theory plays one of the crucial roles in research. The scholars develop their hypotheses and research questions according to the theoretical frameworks, and it is argued that theory guides the process of investigation (Green, 2014). Thus, a theoretical framework may be considered a core element of a research study because it supports researchers’ assumptions and helps to proceed with further conceptual framework development.
The theoretical background largely influences research design – a selection of sampling techniques, data collection tools, and identification of variables (Theoretical framework & research design, n.d.). However, it is also possible to say that theory and the analytical part of the research are mutually interrelated. Being the basis of the research process, a theoretical framework influences conceptual framework development, and the results obtained through the analysis and evaluation of collected data contribute to the expansion of theoretical foundations. In this way, conceptual frameworks inspired by existing theories help to broaden the understanding of theoretical issues by covering the gaps in knowledge.
Germinal Theories
Germinal theories are regarded as “original” or classical perspectives on various phenomena (Buckley & Delicath, 2013, p. 54). Since germinal theories are considered to be traditional ones, they primarily originate from the 20th century. Such theories usually can be applied to wider contexts and areas of investigation and serve as “broad theoretical foundations” associated with greater credibility and validity contrary to most of their modern counterparts (Buckley & Delicath, 2013, p. 59).
In the context of social medicine research, the positivist theories or a critical theory can be defined as germinal. As mentioned by Alderson (1998), from the perspective of the critical theory, society is “a collection of many factions competing for power and resources,” and the population with disabilities and sicknesses serve as a source of medical knowledge “uniquely gained through adversity” while doctors serve as “agents of social control” (p. 1009).
The given perspective on the social roles of professional practitioners and populations with different diagnoses provides a broad contextual framework that can be narrowed down to one phenomenon and can be utilized in a research project confined to a particular research problem in social medicine and public health care. Thus, critical theory can be regarded as an example of a germinal theory.
Theoretical Framework in an “Operating Room Training” Study
The theoretical components can be used in the research of operating room training strategies to provide support for the research process and empirical data collection. Multiple theoretical models of supervision, education, and training applied to different areas of professional practice are of significant interest in modern research literature.
For example, a study devoted to the investigation of training for supervisors suggests that the implementation of theories, such as the Integrated Development Model, Heron’s Six Category process model, etc., in research can provide insights into training and may help to identify a relevant structure of education and intervention development (Kilminster, Jolly, & Van Der Vleuten, 2002, p. 386).
A theoretical framework can provide a basis for the development of a training program and evaluation of training and learning outcomes (Organization learning: A theoretical framework, n.d.). Since every research project includes the collection of empirical data, the effectiveness criteria and principles suggested by a theoretical framework can be used to develop data collection tools and to analyze the received information. Therefore, a theoretical framework serves as the ground for the administration of all research procedures.
References
Alderson, P. (1998). Theories in health care and research: The importance of theories in health care. The BMJ, 317(7164), 1007-1010. Web.
Buckley, R., & Delicath, T. (2013). Dissertation and research success: Hands-on coaching for doctoral success before, during, and after your dissertation. Place of publication not identified: Xlibris Corporation.
Green, H. E. (2014). Use of theoretical and conceptual frameworks in qualitative research. Nurse Researcher, 21(6), 34-38.
Kilminster, S., Jolly, B., & Van Der Vleuten, C. (2002). A framework for effective training for supervisors. Medical Teacher, 24(4), 385-389. Web.
Organization learning: A theoretical framework. (n.d.). Web.
Theoretical framework & research design. (n.d.). Web.