Unit 3: Module 3 – M3 Assignment 3 Discussion

Assignment 3: Preliminary Thoughts about a Theoretical FrameworkDueWednesday, November 16, 2016.Creswell (2009) described thetheoretical frameworkas a rainbow arc, bridging the dependent and independent variables to provide an overarching explanation of how and why theindependent variablemay predict [or affect] thedependent variable. It will help to review Creswell’s definitions of dependent and independent variables [Chap.3, p. 50], which were also pointed out in the M1.A2 Discussion about setting up your potential research questions using the relational model.To further explain Creswell’s rainbow arc metaphor with an example: If theindependent variablein a relational research question istypes of classroom educational practicesand thedependent variableisstudent success in learning, envision how a theory likeGardners theory of multiple intelligencescould be thetheoretical frameworkorrainbow arca researcher might use as a possible explanatory link for how one variable predicts the other. In this case, the theoretical perspective is that multiple intelligence theory applied to classroom educational practices could impact student success in learning. Since there are many possible theories that could connect these two variables, can you see how focusing on a single theory might focus this research question?Another example from your recent article critique: Consider how Langer (2002) used theories about the concept ofreflection, under his heading, The Concept of Reflection in Learning,as a theoretical/conceptual framework, or lens, as a way to frame the concept of journals as a learning tool for adults (p. 338), citing definitions ofreflectionfrom different researchers. He could have taken quite a different approach with different theories, for example, adult learning theories, for his rainbow arc to connect the variables that framed the research question for his study.As you read the literature on your own research topic, look at the different variables researchers have used in their research questions, and note how they have connectedrelevant theoriesto focus or frame the relationship between the variables. These are theoretical or conceptual frameworks at work!The reading assignment for this week includes Chapter 3, The Use of Theory, in Creswell (2009), wheretheoryis defined and framed, based on its uses in different kinds of empirical research, i.e. quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. Reviewing this carefully can help to give you a useful context for the concept of theory and theoretical framework, as well as his brief definitions of dependent and independent variables [p.50], as mentioned above.For this assignment, post your response, DIRECTLY to the Discussion, considering the following ideas about the nature of a theoretical/conceptual framework.Discuss why a theoretical framework is important for a research study and in developing a literature review.What were the key variables in Langer’s study and how did having a clear theoretical framework help Langer (2002) focus his study more effectively?Using the article you critiqued inModule 3 Assignment 2, identify the theoretical framework theauthor used to connect the key variables. Keep in mind that you should typically be able tofind the theoretical framework in the literature review section if it is an empirical article.Post your response directly to the Discussion in a narrative format. Respond to a minimum of two peer responses.Please make sure you review the elements of the grading criteria and associated points carefully and make sure your assignment has addressed all the elements and in enough detail to merit full points.Assignment3 Grading CriteriaMaximum PointsPresented aclearand succinctdefinitionof the term theoretical framework in your purpose statement along with a map on how you have structured the remaining paper..4Listed the two variables in Langer’s research question, and described how Langer connected his theoretical framework to these variables.4Included a brief example of a theoretical framework from the article used inModule 3 Assignment 2, identified the two key variables,and explained the role of the specific theory that linkedthe key variables. 4Made positive and significant contributions(a minimum of two additional posts to peer submissions)to the modules discussion.4Wrote in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrated ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources; displayed accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.4Total:20 Use theRespondlink to post responses and materials that pertain to this assignment. Use theRespondlink beneath any existing postings to respond to them.
Preliminary Thoughts about a Theoretical Framework
RespondThis section lists options that can be used to view responses.
Expand AllPrint ViewShow OptionsResponses
Responses are listed below in the following order: response, author and the date and time the response is posted.
Sort byResponseSort byAuthorSort byDate/Time*(an instructor response)What is a variable?Instructor Adragna10/22/2016 4:26:45 AM* Times are displayed in (GMT-07:00) Mountain Time (US & Canada)