Exploring the conceptual framework that helps direct and ground researchers, this is a practical book that presents conceptual frameworks as a mechanism - process and product. The authors discuss a conceptual framework as both a guide and a ballast for empirical research with specific questions and strategies for exploring what is already known about a given topic or question. In the second edition two new chapters have been added; chapter 3 focuses on how conceptual frameworks are conceptualized and developed, profiling Angela Duckworth's seminal work on grit. The chapter addresses the question on the minds of graduate students preparing for the dissertation process: how do I get started? A second published work (along with Margaret Beale Spencer's featured in chapter 7) that utilizes quantitative methods and brings the book into greater balance in terms of methodological focus. Chapter 8 is the second new chapter and provides a student's perspective on the role of conceptual frameworks in the research process from beginning to end. Many more visuals have been included which assist in illustrating key ideas and relationships providing a clear roadmap for the reader, combined with a thorough updating of the relevant research.
Chapter 1: Introduction to Conceptual Frameworks Conceptual Frameworks Explored and Defined Elements of a Conceptual Framework Organization of this Book Concluding Thoughts: Using Conceptual Frameworks Chapter 2: Why Conceptual Frameworks? What (and Where) is Theory? Whose Theory is It, and Where Does It Come From? What is a Literature Review, and What is It For? The Case for Conceptual Frameworks: Concluding Thoughts Chapter 3: Origins of a Conceptual Framework: The Birth of Grit Background and context: An overview of the work in focus The argument Origins: Conversations with the dead and the living Formulating the concept: From conversing to inquiring Forming and advancing the argument Chapter 4: Excavating Questions "Excavating" Research Questions About the Author Background and Context: An Overview of the Work in Focus The Argument Conceptual Frameworks and Research Design The Co-evolution of Conceptual Frameworks and Research Design Conceptual Frameworks and Research Design: Concluding Thoughts Reflection Questions Chapter 5: The Role of the Conceptual Framework in Data Collection and Fieldwork Who You Are, How You Think, and What You Study About the Author Background and Context: An Overview of the Work in Focus The Argument Hyphenated Selves as a Theoretical Framework The Hyphen as Method: Positionality and Practice Conceptual Frameworks and Fieldwork: Concluding Thoughts Chapter 6: Conceptual Frameworks and the Analysis of Data Examining the Influence of an Ever-Emerging Conceptual Framework About the Author Background and Context: An Overview of the Work in Focus The Argument From Argument to Analysis Transcription as Data Analysis Evolving and Shifting Frameworks of Analysis Conceptual Frameworks and Data Analysis: Concluding Thoughts Chapter 7: Expanding the Conversation, Extending the Argument: The Role of Conceptual Frameworks in Presenting, Explaining, and Contextualizing Findings About the Author Background and Context: AN OVERVIEW OF THE WORK IN FOCUS Being in Conversation With Theory: Influences on Thought and Action The Argument Conclusion Chapter 8: Reflections on the Making and Re-making of a Conceptual Framework - William K. Dunworth Developing a Conceptual Framework Challenges in the field Revisiting Conceptual Frameworks: Turning Artifacts into Processes "Everything is data": Returning to the field Revising the conceptual framework and integrating findings Chapter 9: The Conceptual Framework as Guide and Ballast Developing a Conceptual Framework Starting Points: Self and Audience Making-and Breaking-Your Plans The Conversation: From Listening to Speaking Strategies and Exercises for Developing Conceptual Frameworks Identifying Your Interests, Beliefs, and Motivations for Doing Research Examination of the "Conversations Already Happening" Ongoing Questions and Concerns about the Research Concept Maps Research Memos Research Journal Reason and Rigor
"[The Second Edition] does a better job than any other text I've read of demystifying research by emphasizing the process rather than the strategies." -- Jane Lohmann "[This book] is a very good examination of the ways conceptual frameworks play themselves out in different contexts examining the different aspects of the conceptual frameworks as they appear in literature that has been published (including the dissertation)." -- Julie Slayton "[This text] provides an excellent overview of the use of conceptual frameworks to guide research." -- Christine E. Blake
