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.
All written assignments and responses should follow APA rules for attributing sources