Assignment 1: Thinking of a Theoretical Framework
Due by Saturday, February 8, 2014.
Creswell (2008) described the theoretical framework as a rainbow bridging the dependent and independent variables and providing an overarching explanation of how and why the independent variable predicts the dependent variable.
To further explain in very simplistic terms, and considering Creswell’s rainbow metaphor above, if the dependent variable at one end of the rainbow is student success in learning and the independent variable at the other end is types of educational practices used in the classroom, Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences could be the rainbow arc used by the researcher as a possible explanation of how one variable predicts the other. The theory could be used to connect the two variables using the rationale of instructional strategies addressing the multiple learning styles causing an impact on success of student learning.
As you read the literature on your topic, look at the variables used in the study, the relationship between the variables being examined, and how the theoretical foundation helps to map out the relationship between the variables.
For your first assignment in this module, post your response to the following question:
Having reviewed the above definition and example, discuss whether a theoretical framework is important for a research study and in developing a literature review. What difference would it make to not have a framework for conducting research? Select one of the articles you have gathered so far, and identify the theoretical framework the author used to connect the key variables. Keep in mind that you should typically be able to find the theoretical framework in the literature review section if it is an empirical article.
READ ALSO : Resource: Appendix A. Write a 1,400- to 1,750-word autobiographical research paper that analyzes the influences of race as it relates to your community. In your paper, write your first-person account of how human interactions in your community have been racialized. For the community, you may consider relations within your neighborhood, local government, service groups, clubs, schools, workplace, or any environment of which you are a part. Answer the following questions and provide examples: Do members of your community look like you? In what ways do they look the same or different? How do leaders within your community treat people who are like you? How do they treat people who are different? How do other members of your community treat people who are like you? How do they treat people who are different? Do your texts or work manuals contain information by or about people like you? Do the local media represent people like you? If so, in what ways? What are some similarities and differences between you and the people who are in leadership positions in your community? Do you think minority group interests are represented within your community? If you could resolve any inequities within your community, what would you change? How and why? Which main concepts from the text relate to race? Apply some of these concepts to your project. Include the following elements in your paper: The thesis addresses racial issues in your local community. The content is comprehensive and accurate. The paper itself draws on your personal experiences with and opinions about cultural diversity in your community. Three sources are used, and one source is a community member, leader, or representative from a local community organization. The paper is written in first-person point of view, with an autobiographical approach. Text concepts are applied to your observations. Assignment questions are answered. The paper includes perspectives from supporting sources. The conclusion is logical, flows from the body of the paper, and reviews the major points. Paragraph transitions are present. The tone is appropriate. Sentences are well-constructed. The paper, title page, and references follow APA guidelines. Rules of grammar, usage, and punctuation are followed. Spelling is correct. Post your completed research as an attachment.
All written assignments and responses should follow APA rules for attributing sources
