There is no single definition of the conceptual framework (CF) or consensus on how it is best applied in the research process. However, in this piece, the authors argue that the CF is a tool used to link the literature review, research methodology, and study design. The CF grounds the study in the previous literature, theories, and models. It helps the researcher articulate their rationale for why the study should be performed, justify their study design, and describe the lens through which they analyze a phenomenon or research question. Researchers may find the variable use of terms such as theory, theoretical framework, and CF to be confusing. The authors address the distinction between these terms and present strategies to develop and use the CF throughout the research process. The authors provide practical examples and resources for additional learning.
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November 2024
Method/Ology|
October 04 2024
The Conceptual Framework: A Practical Guide
John Kulesa, MD, MEd;
aKravis Children’s Hospital, Division of Hospital Medicine, New York, New York
bIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Pediatrics, New York, New York
Address correspondence to John Kulesa, MD, MEd, Division of Hospital Medicine, Kravis Children’s Hospital, 1184 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. E-mail: [email protected]
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Spandana Induru, MD, MEd;
Spandana Induru, MD, MEd
cChildren’s Hospital Los Angeles, Division of Hospital Medicine, Los Angeles, California
dUniversity of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles, California
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Elizabeth Hubbard, MD, MEd;
Elizabeth Hubbard, MD, MEd
eChildren’s National Hospital, Division of Hospital Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia
fGeorge Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Washington, District of Columbia
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Priti Bhansali, MD, MEd
Priti Bhansali, MD, MEd
eChildren’s National Hospital, Division of Hospital Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia
fGeorge Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Washington, District of Columbia
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Address correspondence to John Kulesa, MD, MEd, Division of Hospital Medicine, Kravis Children’s Hospital, 1184 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. E-mail: [email protected]
Hosp Pediatr (2024) 14 (11): e503–e508.
Article history
Received:
February 12 2024
Revision Received:
March 18 2024
Accepted:
April 11 2024
Citation
John Kulesa, Spandana Induru, Elizabeth Hubbard, Priti Bhansali; The Conceptual Framework: A Practical Guide. Hosp Pediatr November 2024; 14 (11): e503–e508. https://doi.org/10.1542/hpeds.2024-007794
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