The language of qualitative research can be confusing. The words sound like regular English, but they have very particular meanings. To make the language even more complicated, the definitions can vary across different qualitative methodological scholars.

For the purpose of this course, distinctions between two important concepts should be considered:

1. Theoretical framework: the use of constructs and propositions a      recognized theory (or theories) to a research problem, purpose, and      question.
   • Examples: Social Influence       theory, transformational leadership theory, game theory
2. Conceptual framework: the      construction of ideas, assumptions, and beliefs sourced in both the      literature and one’s own experience, which identify the main concepts that      guide the formulation of the research problem, purpose, and question.
   • Examples: Concepts from       positive psychology, mindfulness meditation, language development models

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Review the Learning Resources related to the use of a      theoretical or conceptual framework to guide the examination of a research      problem in qualitative research.

Post an explanation of the role of a theoretical or conceptual framework in qualitative research and provide examples from the 

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Ravitch, S. M., & Carl, N. M. (2021). Qualitative research: Bridging the conceptual, theoretical, and methodological (2nd ed.) Sage Publications.

• Chapter 2, “Using Conceptual Frameworks      in Research” (pp. 32–61)
• Chapter 3, “Critical      Qualitative Research Design” (pp. 62–103)
  • “Qualitative Research Design”       (focus on pp. 62-63)

Rubin, H. J., & Rubin, I. S. (2012). Qualitative interviewing: The art of hearing data (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

• Chapter 1, “Listening,      Hearing, and Sharing” (pp. 1–11)
• Chapter 2, “Research      Philosophy and Qualitative Interviews” (pp. 13–24)

Walden University Writing Center. (2015). Common course assignments: Annotated bibliographies. Retrieved from http://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/assignments/annotatedbibliographies

Use this website to help you as you create your Annotated Bibliography for your Major Assignment 1.

Walden University. (n.d.). How do I write an annotated bibliography? Retrieved from http://academicanswers.waldenu.edu/faq/72682

Use this website to help you as you create your Annotated Bibliography for your Major Assignment 1.

Walden University Writing Center. (2012, October 30). Weathering the storm…of problem statements [Blog post]. Retrieved from http://waldenwritingcenter.blogspot.com/2012/10/weathering-storm-of-problem-statements.html

Use this website to help you as you write your problem statement for your Major Assignment 1.

Walden University Library. (n.d.). Course guide and assignment help for RSCH 8310. Retrieved from http://academicguides.waldenu.edu/rsch8310

Document: Video Field Notes Guide (Word document)

Use this guide to help you as you take notes for your Scholar of Change video.

Document: Major Assignment 1: Developing a Research Topic for a Qualitative Study Overview and Guidelines (PDF)

Use this document to guide you as you develop Part 1 for this Major Assignment.

Theoretical Lens

Conroy, N.E.(2013). Rethinking adolescent peer sexual harassment: Contributions of feminist theory. Journal of School Violence, 12, 340-356.

Cleaver, D., & Ballantyne, J. (2014). Teachers’ views of constructivist theory: A qualitative study illuminating relationships between epistemological understanding and music teaching practice. International Journal of Music Education, 32(2), 228-241.

Stahl, B., Doherty, N., Shaw, M., & Janicke, H. (2014). Critical Theory as an Approach to the Ethics of Information Security. Science & Engineering Ethics, 20(3), 675-699.

Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks

Grant, C., & Osanloo, A. (2014). Understanding, Selecting, and Integrating a Theoretical Framework in Dissertation Research: Creating the Blueprint for Your “House”. Administrative Issues Journal: Education, Practice, And Research, 4(2), 12-26.

Required Media

Laureate Education (Producer). (2016). Theoretical lens and frameworks for qualitative researchers [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Note: The approximate length of this media piece is 3 minutes.

In this media program, Dr. Annie Pezalla, Associate Director, Center for Research Quality, Walden University, discusses the theoretical lens in qualitative research as well as the frameworks necessary for a qualitative approach.

Accessible player  –Downloads– Download Video w/CC Download Audio Download Transcript 

Scholar of Change Video #2

Kundert, J. (2012). Battling drug addiction in the heartland [Video file].

Note: The approximate length of this media piece is 2 minutes.

In this media program, Jackie Kundert describes how Walden gave her the confidence to use her own family trauma to help and inspire others in her community. As you observe, take notes using the Video Field Notes Guide.