What is conceptual framework a PhD students -
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Introduction

If you’re doing a PhD or working on your research proposal, you’ve probably heard the term “conceptual framework.”
But what does it mean?
Why is it important?
And how can you create one easily?

In this guide, you’ll learn in simple language:

    • What a conceptual framework is

    • Why it’s important in academic research

    • The difference between conceptual and theoretical frameworks

    • How to create your own framework

    • Examples from real research topics


📌 What Is a Conceptual Framework?

A conceptual framework is a plan or guide for your research.
It explains what you are studying, what factors (variables) you’re looking at, and how they are connected.

🧠 Simple definition:

“It’s a diagram or written plan that shows how your research ideas are linked together.”


🎯 Why Is It Important?

Your conceptual framework helps you:

    • Stay focused on your topic

    • Decide what to include in your study

    • Show the relationship between concepts

    • Make your thesis or proposal clear to reviewers

It is required by most universities and academic journals.

Conceptual Framework Theoretical Framework
Based on your research topicBased on your research topic Based on existing theories
Helps you plan what to study Helps explain why something happens
Made by you Taken from books, papers, or models
Includes variables and their connection Includes definitions and assumptions

✅ You can use both in your research. Usually, the conceptual framework comes from the theoretical one.

🧱 What to Include in a Conceptual Framework

    1. Research problem or question

    1. Key variables (things you’re studying)

    1. Relationships between variables

    1. Optional: a diagram or chart

Explanation (1–2 paragraphs)

📝 Steps to Create a Conceptual Framework

Step 1: Define Your Research Problem

Ask yourself: What am I trying to find out?

🧠 Example:

“Why do students struggle with online learning?”


Step 2: Find Key Variables

Look at past research to find related ideas or factors.

🧠 Example:

    • Online learning tools

    • Student motivation

    • Performance in exams

Step 3: Classify Your Variables

Identify the types of variables:

Type Example
Independent online Learing Tools
Dependent Student Performance
Mediating Motivation
Moderating Teacher Support

Step 4: Draw a Diagram

Use arrows and boxes to show how the variables are connected.
This becomes your visual framework.

🖼 Example:

nginx

CopyEdit

Online Learning → Motivation → Academic Performance

🧾 Common Mistakes to Avoid

    • ❌ Using too many ideas with no connection

    • ❌ Not explaining your diagram

    • ❌ Skipping this section in your proposal

    • ❌ Copying a framework without adapting it to your topi

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