How to develop a research topic for a qualitative study?

Cynthia Grant, PhD
University of Colorado-Denver
Azadeh Osanloo, PhD
I S S U E S
New Mexico State University
A D M I N I S T R A T I V E
UNDERSTANDING, SELECTING, AND INTEGRATING A
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK IN DISSERTATION RESEARCH:
CREATING THE BLUEPRINT FOR YOUR “HOUSE”
J O U R N A L :
The theoretical framework is one of the most important aspects in the research process, yet is often misunderstood by
doctoral candidates as they prepare their dissertation research study. The importance of theory-driven thinking and acting
is emphasized in relation to the selection of a topic, the development of research questions, the conceptualization of the
literature review, the design approach, and the analysis plan for the dissertation study. Using a metaphor of the “blueprint”
of a house, this article explains the application of a theoretical framework in a dissertation. Steps for how to select and
integrate a theoretical framework to structure all aspects of the research process are described, with an example of how to
thread theory throughout the dissertation.
C O N N E C T I N G
Keywords: theoretical framework, dissertation, doctoral, academic writing, research methods
T
E D U C A T I O N ,
he dissertation is a labor of love requiring much work, sweat, and tears, as well as organization skills and
extensive resources from others who are involved with the process. The final product is a document that one can
recognize as a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. We liken this experience to the task of building your own home.
As any architect or contractor knows, prior to building a house, one must develop drawings called a blueprint for the
structure. A blueprint serves as a guide for all those who are involved in the construction of the home. The drawing
permits the foundation of the home to be built, and it dictates the overall floor plan of rooms, the flow of plumbing,
electrical, and mechanical systems—even the direction in which the house will face. Like housing construction, much
critical thinking and planning must be put into developing a blueprint for the dissertation. We believe the blueprint
is an appropriate analogy of the theoretical framework of the dissertation.
P R A C T I C E ,
The theoretical framework is one of the most important aspects in the research process, and a component that is
often minimally covered in doctoral coursework. Iqubal described the struggle to identify and prepare the theoretical
framework for the dissertation as “the most difficult but not impossible part of [the] proposal” (2007, p.17). As
professors and dissertation committee members of doctoral students in the fields of education, policy, leadership,
curriculum and instruction, and social work, we have heard students express confusion, a lack of knowledge, and
frustration with the challenge of choosing a theoretical framework and understanding how to apply it throughout
the dissertation. Some students briefly make mention of a theoretical framework at the start of the dissertation and
never return to it throughout the rest of the document; others omit the inclusion of a theoretical framework in the
proposal and are required to restructure their document after committee review.
A N D
R E S E A R C H
The importance of utilizing a theoretical framework in a dissertation study cannot be stressed enough. The theoretical
framework is the foundation from which all knowledge is constructed (metaphorically and literally) for a research
study. It serves as the structure and support for the rationale for the study, the problem statement, the purpose, the
significance, and the research questions. The theoretical framework provides a grounding base, or an anchor, for
the literature review, and most importantly, the methods and analysis. Lysaght (2011) highlighted the necessity of
identifying one’s theoretical framework for a dissertation study:
A researcher’s choice of framework is not arbitrary but reflects important personal beliefs and understandings
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about the nature of knowledge, how it exists (in the metaphysical sense) in relation to the observer, and the
possible roles to be adopted, and tools to be employed consequently, by the researcher in his/her work. (p.
572)
Without a theoretical framework, the structure and vision for a study is unclear, much like a house that cannot
be constructed without a blueprint. By contrast, a research plan that contains a theoretical framework allows the
dissertation study to be strong and structured with an organized flow from one chapter to the next.
P R A C T I C E ,
A N D
Over the past 30 years, there has been an increasing trend to include a theoretical framework in the dissertation
(Melendez, 2002). There is an expectation by most chairpersons and committee members that a dissertation study
will be informed by theory. Despite these realities, oftentimes students begin the dissertation process at a loss for
how to accomplish working with a theoretical framework. Concurrently, incorporating a theoretical framework into
research studies is a task that some may continue to struggle with post-graduation. Silver and Herbst (as cited in
Lester, 2005) have acknowledged that journal submissions are often rejected for being atheoretical, or having no
theory. This underscores the importance of teaching students how to implement a theoretical framework in their
research, as it pertains not only to the dissertation, but also to scholarship and research activities in the professorate.
C O N N E C T I N G
E D U C T A T I O N ,
Thus, the purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the theoretical framework and to outline a blueprint for
how to understand, select, and integrate a theoretical framework into one’s research when writing the dissertation.
We offer the analogy of using a blueprint when building a house to provide the reader with a visual representation of
the importance of this step in the development of a dissertation idea. We hope the necessity of this step in preparing
the dissertation will be metaphorically obvious—a contractor could not possibly know what kind of house to build
without instructions mapped out ahead of time. Similarly, one cannot guide a reader through thinking about a
dissertation study without a clear explication of the study’s theoretical framework. This article is intended to be a
resource for faculty working with doctoral students in the classroom or in an advisory role; however, it is primarily
aimed towards doctoral candidates who are seeking guidance with this foundational piece of the dissertation.
This article first covers the basics of understanding a theoretical framework, while simultaneously introducing the
analogy of the blueprint for a house, which is a running theme throughout the entire article. This section also focuses
on the differences between a theoretical and conceptual framework. Next, the article describes the important tenets
of selecting an appropriate theoretical framework for one’s research. Finally, we highlight strategies and techniques
for implementing a theoretical framework in a dissertation study.
J O U R N A L :
UNDERSTANDING THE THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
What is a Theoretical Framework?
A D M I N I S T R A T I V E
I S S U E S
The theoretical framework is the “blueprint” for the entire dissertation inquiry. It serves as the guide on which to build
and support your study, and also provides the structure to define how you will philosophically, epistemologically,
methodologically, and analytically approach the dissertation as a whole. Eisenhart defined a theoretical framework
as “a structure that guides research by relying on a formal theory…constructed by using an established, coherent
explanation of certain phenomena and relationships” (1991, p. 205). Thus, the theoretical framework consists of the
selected theory (or theories) that undergirds your thinking with regards to how you understand and plan to research
your topic, as well as the concepts and definitions from that theory that are relevant to your topic. Lovitts (2005)
empirically defines criteria for applying or developing theory to the dissertation that must be appropriate, logically
interpreted, well understood, and align with the question at hand.
We assert that students must select and clarify a theoretical framework from the time the dissertation topic is initially
conceptualized. Philosophers such as Dooyeweerd (as cited in Sire, 2004, p. 35) have even gone so far as to call for
“pretheoretical commitments” by the researcher to specifically identify one’s “worldview of the heart rather than the
mind.” We profess that the researcher’s choice of theory must be clearly stated and explicitly mentioned early in the
writing of the dissertation.
Mertens acknowledged that the theoretical framework “has implications for every decision made in the research
process” (1998, p. 3), which supports our belief that the theoretical framework for a study must be identified at the
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inception of dissertation work. We also believe that all research is theoretical. The importance of theory-driven
thinking and acting should be emphasized in relation to the selection of a topic, development of research questions,
focus of the literature review, the design approach, and analysis plan for the dissertation study. Anderson, Day, and
McLaughlin (2006) capture the necessity of including a sound theoretical underpinning in a dissertation study with a
quote from a dissertation supervisor who stated, “I don’t see how you can do a good piece of work that’s atheoretical”
(p. 154). Similarly, Sarter (2005, p. 494) addressed the “limited usefulness of findings and conclusions” when a study
is not justified by a theoretical framework. Evidence across disciplines is clear that the explicit identification and
inclusion of a theoretical framework is a necessity of sound research.
The Blueprint
I S S U E S
We liken the theoretical framework to the blueprint for a house—you (the student and researcher) are the architect
who is charged with choosing what you are going to build and how the property will be constructed as you imagine
it. Once you create the blueprint, others will have a basic idea of what concepts and principles you will use to establish
the ideas and approaches to your dissertation. Only after a plan for the house has been determined can you begin to
build the dissertation study.
J O U R N A L :
There are two types of blueprint drawings that are used in the construction industry that correlate to the theoretical
framework of the dissertation. First, an architect must create an elevation drawing to display the exterior of the home.
This drawing offers an outside view of the style and structure, as shown in Figure 1.
C O N N E C T I N G
E D U C A T I O N ,
P R A C T I C E ,
Figure 1. Traditional style elevation blueprint drawing
Types of houses vary across the country, from a ranch, bungalow, an American Four Square, adobe style, Craftsman,
split-level, etc. There is no one perfect or right style of house, although certain home styles dominate certain parts of
the country. All can provide shelter and residency. Similarly, there is no one perfect or right theory for a dissertation,
but certain theories are popular within each discipline. As an architect or construction developer must select the type
of house to build, the researcher must choose a theory to structure the dissertation.
A N D
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R E S E A R C H
Theories come from a multitude of sources in each discipline, and there are always more being created and applied
across fields. For example, there is a plethora of options within the realm of educational leadership for selecting a
theoretical framework. The researcher must select the appropriate theory of how his/her “house” will look on the
exterior. The following list details a sampling of commonly used theories across disciplines.
Transformational/relational theories
Transactional/management theories
Servant leadership/moral theories
Trait theories
Situational theories
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A N D
R E S E A R C H
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Behavioral theories
Systems theory
Developmental theory
Cognitive theory
Sense of community theory
Behavioral theory
Queer theory
Feminist Theory
Critical race theory
Self-efficacy theory
Functionalist theory
Relational theory
Marxist Theory
Intersubjectivity theory
Gender theory
Change theory
Identity formation
Community of Inquiry
Transformational theory
The researcher’s choice of a theory provides structure to the entire dissertation. It provides a common world view or
lens from which to support one’s thinking on the problem and analysis of data.
A D M I N I S T R A T I V E
I S S U E S
J O U R N A L :
C O N N E C T I N G
The second type of blueprint is a floor plan, which details the interior details of the construction of a home. This
drawing allows the viewer to see the floor plan as if you were looking down from above into the home itself. All homes
contain common elements such as rooms, doors, toilets, a kitchen, ventilation, electrical outlets, and an aesthetic
design. Yet how each home is organized or laid out will be in accordance with the design choice used in the elevation
drawing. For example, bungalow homes have similar floor plans and exteriors, but these floor plans are very different
than an adobe home, as shown below in Figure 2.
Figure 2. Craftsman style floor plan blueprint
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Similarly, most professional practice dissertations and research articles follow the typical format of Statement of the
Problem, Literature Review, Methods or Research Design, Presentation of the Data, and Discussion. Yet the contents
of each section or chapter will vary from student to student, and must be consistent with the theoretical framework
selected for the dissertation as a whole.
I S S U E S
The floor plan of the dissertation blueprint contains the theoretical principles, constructs, concepts, and tenants
of a theory. Specific conceptual elements of a theory (i.e. the interior of a home) must align with the researcher’s
theoretical framework. Thus, you would not expect to walk into a bungalow style home and find massive stucco walls
with rounded edges, which are characteristic of an adobe style house. In reference to the dissertation blueprint, if you
select transformational leadership as your theoretical framework, each chapter should connect to theorists who have
written about leadership and concepts drawn from this framework. It would not be appropriate to discuss variables
that do not relate to principles of transformational leadership (e.g. gender, age, or ethnicity). This would be akin to
placing stucco, rounded walls in your Craftsman style home. Principles and constructs (the interior blueprint) that
do not derive from your theoretical worldview of the study (the exterior blueprint) would be inconsistent and out of
place.
J O U R N A L :
Before committing to a research design, you must first consider the guiding principles for your inquiry so that readers
will understand how you have situated the problem of study in relation to a theoretical context. The theory selected for
your study offers a conceptual basis for understanding, analyzing, and designing ways to investigate a problem. Thus,
you need to know how you will define and approach your research problem and provide a rationale for how and why
you are conducting your study in order for the reader to get a sense for where you stand on the problem itself. This
belief is supported by Maxwell, who wrote, “The function of this theory is to inform the rest of your design—to help
you to assess and refine your goals, develop realistic and relevant research questions, select appropriate methods,
and identify potential validity threats to your conclusions. It also helps you justify your research” (2004, pp. 33-34).
C O N N E C T I N G
Embedded within the discussion of a theoretical framework is an explanation of a conceptual framework. While these
two ideas are similar in nature, they do differ in their approach, style, and utilization within a dissertation. This is an
important distinction for doctoral students to understand and grasp.
The Difference Between a Theoretical and Conceptual Framework
E D U C A T I O N ,
Theoretical frameworks are sometimes referred to as a conceptual framework; however, these terms are neither
interchangeable nor synonymous. They can be vague and lead to confusion for students and dissertation committee
members alike. As such, it is important and necessary to differentiate these terms.
P R A C T I C E ,
We distinguish the two terms by clarifying that a theoretical framework is derived from an existing theory (or theories)
in the literature that has already been tested and validated by others and is considered a generally acceptable theory
in the scholarly literature. As Merriam (2001) proposed, it is the researcher’s lens with which to view the world. It is the
responsibility of the doctoral student to make a unique application of the selected theory (or theories) so as to apply
theoretical constructs to his or her dissertation study.
A N D
Traditionally, theoretical frameworks are developed a priori, or before data collection in quantitative designs.
However, a theoretical framework may also involve a theory that is developed in the course of the dissertation
study. Qualitative research designs may begin with a structured, or perhaps less structured theoretical framework to
keep the researcher from forcing preconceptions on the findings. In the latter case, the theoretical framework often
emerges in the data analysis phase. Our dissertation committee work has focused almost exclusively on working
with students who “borrow” blueprints from someone else’s theory and use those plans to build their own home. For
example, one of our doctoral candidates used Burns (1978) transformational leadership theory to investigate how
school leaders implemented a change process in a K-12 environment. Principles and concepts of transformational
leadership were threaded throughout all chapters of the dissertation.
R E S E A R C H
We believe this approach towards the utilization of theoretical frameworks can be used with qualitative, quantitative,
and mixed method designs. However, we recognize that doctoral candidates are capable of crafting their own
blueprint for a new theory to be developed a posteriori as a result of their research endeavors.
On the other hand, a conceptual framework, in our view, is the researcher’s understanding of how the research
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problem will best be explored, the specific direction the research will have to take, and the relationship between
the different variables in the study. This is best summarized by Miles & Huberman (1994), who categorized it as a
system of concepts, assumptions, and beliefs that support and guide the research plan. Specifically, the conceptual
framework “lays out the key factors, constructs, or variables, and presumes relationships among them” (1994, p. 440).
Moreover, Camp (2001) aptly described a conceptual framework, asserting that a conceptual framework is a structure
of what has been learned to best explain the natural progression of a phenomenon that is being studied.
P R A C T I C E ,
A N D
The conceptual framework offers a logical structure of connected concepts that help provide a picture or visual
display of how ideas in a study relate to one another within the theoretical framework. It is not simply a string of
concepts, but a way to identify and construct for the reader your epistemological and ontological worldview and
approach to your topic of study. The conceptual framework also gives you an opportunity to specify and define
concepts within the problem (Luse, Mennecke, & Townsend, 2012). Once the conceptual framework for a dissertation
has been established, you can then begin to determine how to go about writing your dissertation.
E D U C T A T I O N ,
In another example from our work supervising dissertations, one candidate relied on best practices in the research
literature associated with interventions with special needs children. Relying on national policies and protocols
associated with Response to Intervention (RtI), core principles of the Federal policy (screening, diagnosis, and progress
monitoring) were analyzed in relation to parent perceptions of service provisions for their children. Thus, RtI and best
practices literature served as the conceptual framework for the study. However, the theoretical framework was that
of educational equity theory, as shown in Table 1.
Table 1
Distinction Between a Theoretical and Conceptual Framework
C O N N E C T I N G
Theoretical Framework
Conceptual Framework
Theory: Educational Equity Theory
Rtl Best Practices
Core concepts: screening, diagnosis,
progress monitoring (as defined by No
Child Left Behind legislation
J O U R N A L :
Theorists:
Marx (1975)
Brookover & Lezotte (1981)
Key theoretical principles: equality,
justified inequality, fair process, social
justice access, participation
I S S U E S
Returning to our analogy of how writing a dissertation is similar to building a house, we believe that the theoretical
framework and its associated tenants and principles would entail the elevation blueprints for a house, whereas the
conceptual framework would involve the floor plan blueprint of how information flows throughout the dissertation.
Although these steps may be taken in tandem or one by one, we profess that the dissertation committee must
challenge students to articulate both the conceptual and theoretical frameworks prior to beginning the dissertation.
SELECTING AN APPROPRIATE THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
A D M I N I S T R A T I V E
Selecting an appropriate theoretical framework for your dissertation research is an important and necessary process
with which all doctoral students should engage. The selection of a theoretical framework requires a deep and
thoughtful understanding of your problem, purpose, significance, and research questions. It is imperative that all
four constructs—the problem, purpose, significance, and research questions—are tightly aligned and intricately
interwoven so that your theoretical framework can serve as the foundation for your work and guide your choice of
research design and data analysis.
Think of the electrical system running through a house: your problem, purpose, significance, research questions,
methodology, and data analysis plan must flow through all rooms in your house, connecting all the elements explicitly
together to deliver power throughout the dissertation. All rooms of a house require electricity. Similarly, all aspects of
the dissertation research should connect to the theoretical framework.
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For the purpose of review and consistency, it is important to briefly discuss the essence of the problem, purpose, and
significance of dissertation research.
Brief Discussion of Problem, Purpose, and Significance in Dissertation Research
Problem. This is one of the most critical parts of the dissertation research. The problem statement establishes
an interaction by two or more factors that produce a dilemma or quandary that can cause for further examination. The
problem statement defines the root problem as well as the other variables and constructs inherent to the problem. It
identifies an area that needs further research or helps to resolve/address an existing problem in the field. How does
the theoretical framework emerge or connect to the problem? What does the problem look like from the outside?
I S S U E S
Purpose. This section defines the purpose, or justification, of your study. That is to say, what are the aims and/
or outcomes for the problem you have generated? Think in terms of the following questions: The aim of this study
is to…? The purpose of this study is to…? What do you hope to do with this study that will add to, critique, or revise
current knowledge in the field? Answering these questions will allow you to describe how the chosen theoretical
framework relates to the purpose of the study.
J O U R N A L :
Significance. Describe the significance, the importance of, or the “so what” of this exploration. Why is this an
important topic? To whom is it important? Why should readers in your particular field, and in general, care about this
issue? Explain the potential value of this study and how it can add to the body of existing work and knowledge in the
field. This section will help you determine the audience for your study as well. Additionally, you will need to explain
why you have chosen a specific theoretical framework in relation to the importance of your study.
C O N N E C T I N G
Aligning your theoretical framework with the problem, purpose, and significance is an important part of the
dissertation process. Again, consider the analogy of the necessity of a blueprint when building a home—by creating
a solid, strong blueprint you can then establish the varying parts and levels for the knowledge you want to build/
know.
Understanding Your Research Questions Using the Lens of the Theoretical Framework
E D U C A T I O N ,
The development of the research questions in your dissertation has a direct impact on the other parts of your
study, including but not limited to the theoretical framework. The relationship between the research questions and
theoretical framework is complementary.
P R A C T I C E ,
Both the main research question or hypotheses and any sub-questions of your study should embody recognizable
aspects of the theoretical framework and articulate the theoretical framework in a manner by which is can be further
explored by your dissertation research. Because the theoretical framework connects the reader to existing knowledge,
the research questions of your study act as the liaison between the existing knowledge and the problem you want
to resolve. For example, if the “lens with which you view the world” is critical of systems and institutions, then your
research questions could be framed around the ideas of in/equality, social justice, and access/barriers. A researcher
with this particular lens would investigate the issue of parental involvement in a high-needs urban setting using this
type of question: “How can school administrators and teachers encourage more active engagement by parents of
high-needs students as a way to promote equal access and use of school resources?” This question incorporates the
theoretical framework of educational equity theory (e.g., “to promote equal access”), as shown in Table 1. In contrast,
the question, “How can parents of high-needs students become more actively involved in their student’s education
and school-life?” does not include a theoretical framework.
A N D
R E S E A R C H
As evidenced by the information above, the theoretical framework, your blueprint, is integral in developing the key
components of your dissertation, including the problem, purpose, significance, and research questions. Keeping this
idea in mind, the selection of a theoretical framework is one of the most important steps in moving from thinking
about your dissertation research to actually starting your dissertation research.
Choosing the Right Theoretical Framework for You
As stated earlier, most research studies in social and behavioral sciences (regardless of disciplines) have a base for
conducting research. This base is called the theoretical framework. The theoretical framework serves as a guide to
your research and assists in determining what things you will measure and examine. The theoretical framework is
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something solid and reliable on which to build your research and to inform the rest of your design.
P R A C T I C E ,
A N D
As such, it is important to examine your own epistemological beliefs when selecting a theoretical framework. Our
beliefs are influenced by assumptions, values, and ethics, which are all personal postulates. It is impossible to not
have preconceived notions, even if they are very general in nature. Due to this, your fundamental beliefs affect how
you will examine and explore research, especially your theoretical framework. In this vein, it is important to reflect
on your own worldview and way of conceptualizing problems. What is the lens with which you view the world? For
example, if you view the world from a pragmatic lens, choosing critical theory would not be the best way for you to
proceed with a theoretical framework, whereas, if you view the world through a lens of interconnectedness of human
beings, social network theory might be a good choice as your study’s theoretical framework. There is no one theory
that fits best with any inquiry. However, it is the researcher’s responsibility to select and provide a clear rationale for
the choice of theory to ensure that it aligns and supports the structure of the study’s purpose, research questions,
significance, and design.
In order to select the most appropriate and best-suited theoretical framework for your dissertation research, consider
the following guidelines:
E D U C T A T I O N ,
1. Begin by identifying your beliefs.
2. Consider several theories that intersect nicely with your epistemological values and broaden your way of
thinking about the concepts in your study.
3. Develop a working knowledge of the theories and understand why each theory is important to you.
4. Conduct a brief literature review to find support for your theories.
C O N N E C T I N G
5. Consult the ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Database to review how others have applied the specific
theories you are considering.
6. Consider arguments that oppose your beliefs and theories.
7. Apply answers to “how” the theory connects to your problem, the study’s purpose, significance, and design.
8. Select one theoretical framework that provides a solid, descriptive ‘blueprint’ for your reader.
J O U R N A L :
Rich theories will offer both an elevation blueprint (i.e., provide structure for the dissertation) and a floor plan (i.e.,
provide concepts and purpose). This will help you focus your study’s design and analysis plan to better build your
research.
INTEGRATING THE THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
A Theoretical Framework Can Enhance Your Literature Review
I S S U E S
In general, the literature view is a discussion of your knowledge about the topic under study and how that knowledge
is supported by the research literature. Often, the literature review acts as the foundation of your study.
A D M I N I S T R A T I V E
When conceptualizing your literature review, it is important to understand the purpose of the literature review in
the dissertation. The literature review is designed to demonstrate the researcher’s knowledge of a particular subject
area, field, and discipline. This includes key terms, ideas, theories, vocabulary, and of course, seminal researchers and
research within the specific field. Hart (1998) asserted that the literature review plays a role in discovering important
variables relevant to the topic; synthesizing and gaining new perspective; identifying relationship between ideas and
practice; establishing the context of the topic or problem; rationalizing the significance of the problem; understanding
the structure of the subject; and relating ideas and theory to applications (p. 27). Last, and certainly important for a
burgeoning scholar, is the notion that the literature review can identify the gaps or paucity of information relevant
to specific areas in the literature. These perceived gaps are the specific areas in which the researcher can significantly
contribute to the literature and field.
The theoretical framework and the literature are intrinsically linked. Often, a theoretical framework can be used as
a guide for logically developing and understanding the different, yet interconnected, parts of the literature review.
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As you center on the “lens with which you view the world” you should in parallel develop the established empirical
literature in the field you are studying. The theoretical framework and literature can then be developed harmoniously,
and then be used to support the data, interpret