Practical Research 2

Quarter 2 - Module 1
Conceptual Framework and
Review of Related Literature

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

Senior
Senior High
High School
School

Practical
Research 2
Quarter 2- Module 1
Lesson 1: Research Framework
Lesson 2: Definition of Terms

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by educators from public institutions. We encourage teachers and other
education stakeholders to email their feedback, comments, and
recommendations to the Department of Education at action@ deped.gov.ph.

We value your feedback and recommendations.

How to Learn from this Module

To achieve the objectives cited above, you are to do the following:

• Take your time reading the lessons carefully.
• Follow the directions and/or instructions in the activities and exercises diligently.
• Answer all the given tests and exercises.

Icons of this Module

What I Need to This part contains learning objectives that
Know are set for you to learn as you go along the
module.

What I know This is an assessment as to your level of

knowledge to the subject matter at hand,
meant specifically to gauge prior related
knowledge
What’s In This part connects previous lesson with that
of the current one.

What’s New An introduction of the new lesson through

various activities, before it will be presented
to you

What is It These are discussions of the activities as a

way to deepen your discovery and under-
standing of the concept.

What’s More These are follow-up activities that are in-

tended for you to practice further in order to
master the competencies.

What I Have Activities designed to process what you

Learned have learned from the lesson

What I can do These are tasks that are designed to show-

case your skills and knowledge gained, and
applied into real-life concerns and situations.
What I Know

Directions: Read and analyze the statements below. Encircle the letter of the correct
answer.

1. Which of the following frameworks refers to the actual ideas, beliefs, and tentative
theories that specifically support the study?
A. methodological framework C. conceptual framework
B. chronological framework D. theoretical framework

2. A research variable that is considered as the presumed effect of the study.

A. independent variable C. dependent variable
B. moderating variable D. control variable

3. Mediating variable is also called as:

A. independent variable C. moderating variable
B. intervening variable D. dependent variable

4. The conceptual framework wherein there is an intervention being made by the

researcher is:
A. IV-DV C. ODV
B. IPO D. PPE

5. One of the two types of defining the terms in research wherein you need to define
according to how the term is being used in the study is:
A. methodological C. operational
B. theoretical D. conceptual

6. Which among the following is a guideline/characteristic of a good definition of terms?

A. the term should be in parenthesis C. direct to the point
B. underlined the entire meaning D. not indented

7. The word is defined according to its meaning from the dictionary.

A. operational C. historical
B. conceptual D. technical

8. Which of the following hypotheses shows no relationship between variables?

A. alternative hypothesis C. complex hypothesis
B. logical hypothesis D. null l hypothesis

9. Which of the following hypotheses expresses the connection between two or more
independent variables and two or more dependent variables?
A. alternative hypothesis C. complex hypothesis
B. logical hypothesis D. null hypothesis
10. “There is no difference in height between boys and girls who are taking vitamins
every day.” This is an example of:
A. non-directional hypothesis C. empirical hypothesis
B. directional hypothesis D. simple hypothesis

11. It refers to the assumption about the relationship between the variables.
A. guide questions C. framework
B. hypothesis D. literature

12. A literature review which introduces several theories or concepts which focus on a
specific topic.
A. methodological review C. theoretical review
B. integrative review D. context review

13. It is a part of the literature review which summarizes and synthesizes the different
ideas from the different sources.
A. recommendation C. conclusion
B. main body D. introduction

14. The chosen edited summaries by journalists for the general readers.
A. scholarly journal C. dissertation
B. periodicals D. books

15. It is a reference done within the text/paragraph in the paper.

A. list of references C. bibliography
B. in-text citation D. source
Lesson

1 Research Framework

What I Need to Know

As you begin writing your research project, you must consider the framework that is
suitable for your study. What is a research framework? A research framework illustrates
the structure or blueprint of the research plan and helps the researcher formulate relevant
research questions.

The framework consists of the key concepts and assumed relationships of the
research project. It is normally used as a guide for researchers so that they are more
focused on the scope of their studies. It can be presented using visual (diagrams, chart, etc.)
and narrative (paragraph stating the concepts and relationships of the study) forms.

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

The types of research frameworks are classified as the theoretical and conceptual
frameworks. A theoretical framework is commonly used for studies that anchor on time-
tested theories that relate the findings of the investigation to the underpinning relevant
theory of knowledge. At the same time, a conceptual framework refers to the actual ideas,
beliefs, and tentative theories that specifically support the study.  It is primarily a conception
or model of what is out there that the researcher plans to study. 

Similarities of the Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

The following are the similar characteristics of Theoretical and Conceptual Framework:
1. Provide an overall view of the research study;
2. Anchor a theory that supports the study;
3. Guide in developing relevant research questions/objectives;
4. Help justify assumptions/hypothesis;
5. Aid in choosing appropriate methodology;
6. Help in gathering and interpreting data and
7. Guide in identifying possible threats to validity.

Differences between the Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

Theoretical framework Conceptual framework
Scope  Broader  Narrower/focused
 Can be used in different studies  Directly related to a specific
study
Focus of Content  The particular theory used  Set of related concepts to a
already in the field specific study
Number of Theories  Presents one theory at a time  May synthesize one or more
theories
Time of Development  Already existing before the  Develop while planning and
conduct of the study writing a specific research
These are the following guidelines and strategies of choosing and developing a Research
Framework according to Barrot (2017, p.73).

Theoretical framework Conceptual framework

 Understand the variables included in your  Identify the key concepts in your study by
study as well as their relationship with one referring to your research questions or
another. objectives.
 Review the existing literature related to your  Search for existing theories that incorporate
research topic. the same concept and look into their
 Using the information that you have relationships with one another.
gathered from the literature, look for  Using the existing theories as a guide, plot
possible theories that may potentially your conceptual framework using a concept
account for the expected results of your map.
research topic.  In case that there are concepts not covered
 From these theories, select the one that is by the selected theories. Incorporate them
most relevant to your study and can provide into your framework. However, make sure
a blueprint for your research. that you are incorporating this concept into
your framework because it is necessary for
your paper.
 After completing the initial draft of your
conceptual framework, write a narrative
explanation of each concept and how each
of them relates to one another. Again, there
should be a basis for the relationship
between the concepts being incorporated.
 Refer once again to your research
questions. Check if the conceptual
framework is aligned with them.
 Note that the process of creating a
conceptual framework is developmental.
This means that it may still be refined or
changed as you read more literature and
look into more theories.
 In some cases, the research hypothesis is
presented at the end of the conceptual
framework.

Concept Map

A concept map is a visual representation of information that helps show the

relationship between ideas. Concept maps begin with the main topic and then branch out
into sub-topics, reflecting the connection of all the elements in the study. It can also provide
and organize new ideas.

It is composed of different figures such as lines, circles, boxes, and other marks or
symbols which represent the elements of your research. It can take the form of charts,
graphic organizers, tables, flowcharts, Venn Diagrams, timelines, or T-charts. Concept map
arranges related ideas in a hierarchy. You start broad, and the sub-topics will get more and
more specific. It also helps you in formulating a specific topic from the general or the main
idea with significant connections of information. In other words, understanding the big picture
makes the details more significant and easier to comprehend.
Concept maps are very useful for researchers and readers who understand better
visually. With the proper connection of lines and linking arrows to shapes and other symbols
representing your concepts about the research, the readers can visualize a comprehensive
picture of your study.

However, in the concept map, you are not yet actually researching your study. It is
developing or creating your plan or blueprint so that you will be guided on the flow and
direction of your research study. And that includes your research questions, variables, and
methodology. It means that you are just gathering and soliciting ideas on what you could
learn about your chosen topic.

Before creating your conceptual framework, you have to understand first the different

variables of your study. Although these were already discussed in the previous module for
the purpose of utilizing it in your framework, an in-depth concept is a need.

The independent variable is the “presumed cause” of the research problem. It is the
reason for any “change” or difference in a dependent variable. It can be purposely
manipulated by the researcher, depending on the focus of the study. It maybe can cause,
influence, or affect the result or outcome of the study. It is also called as the experimental,
treatment, antecedent, or predictor variable. Moreover, it refers to the variable that is stable
and unaffected by the other variables you are trying to measure.

The dependent variable is the “presumed effect” of the research problem. It is

usually the problem itself or the element that is being questioned. This variable is altered as
a result of experimental manipulation of the independent variable or variables. It is also
called as the criterion, effect, response, or outcome variable which captures the interest of
the researcher and requires analysis, interpretation, and implication of the findings of the
study. The variable that depends on other factors that are measured and are affected or
influenced by the independent variable.

The moderating variable is an independent variable which influences the direction

and the strength of the connection between independent and dependent variables. The
independent variable interacts with the moderator variable, which makes the relationship of
the independent and dependent variable stronger or weaker. It alters the effect that an
independent variable has on a dependent variable base on its value. The moderator thus
influences the effective component of the cause-effect relationship between the two
variables. This is also called as the interaction effect.

Mediating variable or Intervening variable is an element that exists between the

independent to the dependent variable. A mediator (or mediating) variable is an integral part
of the cause-effect relationship and helps us to understand the effects of the independent
variable on the dependent variable. It is a variable that describes the effect and influence of
the relationship between the variables and what is controlling that relationship. This is also
called as correlated or mediator variables

The control variable is a special type of independent variable that can influence the
dependent variable. It takes an active role in quantitative studies. Statistical procedures are
used to control this variable. It is useful to integrate the control variables into your research
study, but it is not the main focus.
It has somehow an effect on the dependent variable and an extension of the
independent variable. However, if you omit the control variable from your study, the findings
would be less accurate. It is mostly relevant if your study is about to prove a cause-effect
relationship by undertaking statistical analysis.

The Input-Process-Output Model

     The Input-Process-Output Model (IPO) is a conceptual paradigm which indicates the

inputs, required process, and the output. This approach is seated on the premise of
acquiring essential information by converting inputs into outputs through the required
processing steps in obtaining the result. The IPO Model is also referred to as a functional
model that is usually used in action research where an intervention or solution is necessary
to solve the identified problem. 
      The Input is usually the independent variable of the study. Meanwhile, the Process is
the intervention or solution consist of the instruments and analyses used to acquire the
result. Lastly, the Output is the findings or outcome of the interventions being made to solve
the identified problem.

Common Example of Conceptual Framework

As you read on different research studies, the common conceptual frameworks used
of most studies are the independent and dependent variable model and the input, process,
and output model.

A. Independent Variable - Dependent Variable Model (IV-DV)

For example:

Figure 1. The schematic diagram of the Independent and Dependent Variables of the Study.

This conceptual framework shows the independent and dependent variables of the
study. It is presumed that the more number of hours a student prepares for the exam, the
higher would be the expected academic performance.

B. The Input – Process - Output Model (IPO)

   
For example:

Figure 2. The schematic diagram of the Input, Process, and Output Approach of the Study.

This conceptual framework shows the input, process, and output approach of the
study. The input is the independent variable, which includes the socio-demographic and food
safety profile of the respondents. The process includes the tools and analyses in gathering
the data, while the output is the outcome based on the results of the study.

What’s New

Activity 1: Who is YTC?

Identify the following statements, whether it is true to both theoretical and conceptual
framework or not. Write (Y) for “yes” on the space at the left side of the statement if it is true
to both while (T) for “theoretical” and “C” if it is conceptual.

Answe Statement
r
Directly related to a specific study.
Overall view of the research study.
Considered as the blueprint of the research.
General frame of reference used in conducting the research.
Researcher’s idea of how the study will be explored.
Anchor in a particular theory existing already in the field.
Generalized in scope.
Guide in choosing an appropriate methodology.
Can be presented using both visual and narrative form.
Enable the readers to obtain a general understanding of the research study.
Considers the relevant theory underpinning the knowledge base of the
phenomenon.
It may synthesize one more theory.
Can monitor possible threats to the validity of the study.
It is more focused and narrower in scope.
Develop only during the planning stage of the study.
What Is It

Example 1

Research Title: Effect of Mentoring Program on Academic Performance among

Senior High School Students

Conceptual Paradigm:

Effect of Mentoring Academic

Program Performance

In this conceptual framework, it is expected that the students who underwent the

mentoring program will have better academic performance than those who did not.

Example 2

Research Title: Awareness on the Safety Precaution against COVID 19 among the

Senior Citizens who are living in the Home Care Facilities: Basis for a Proposed
Intervention Program

Conceptual Paradigm:

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

Socio-demographic Profile
1. Age
2. Sex
3. Marital Status 1. Profiling
4. Educational 2. Survey Tool
Attainment 3. Data Gathering Proposed
Safety Precaution Awareness 4. Data Analysis Intervention
Against COVID 19 and Interpretation Program
1. Causes
2. Management
3. Prevention

In this conceptual framework, the input is the baseline information about the

respondents. Necessary steps and procedures are to be implemented to obtain the vital data
as a result and findings of the research. Furthermore, these findings will be the basis for a
proposed intervention program as the output of the study.

What’s More
After thorough reading on the guidelines on how to make your conceptual framework,
kindly answer the following activities. You are given the title of the research study and the
variables in the framework. Designate which box or variable you are going to place the
different elements in the study. Make sure to identify only the factors that can affect the
result of the study. (Note that not all of the elements are applicable.)

Activity 1: Spot the Variable (Part 1)

Research Title: Medical Intervention and the Number of Patients Recovering from

Pneumonia

Conceptual Paradigm:

Elements/Factors
1. Health Care Facilities
2. Work Experience of the Medical Team
3. Medical intervention
4. Social Status of the Patient
5. Number of Patients Recovered from Pneumonia
6. Immune System of the Patient
7. Patient’s Employment

In this conceptual framework, there are assumed moderating variables that are taken
into consideration that somehow they would influence the relationship between the
independent and the dependent variable. They can affect the strength of the connection of
the variables.

Activity 2: Spot the Variable (Part 2)

Research Title: Effects of the Social Responsibility of a Corporation to its
Organizational Performance

Conceptual Paradigm:

Elements/Factors
1. Organizational Performance
2. Total Number of Employees
3. Clients’ Loyalty
4. Corporate Social Responsibility
5. Employee’s Dedication
6. Administrative Commitment
7. Corporate Business Location
8. Type of Business

In this conceptual framework, there are assumed moderating variables that are taken
into consideration that somehow can affect the relationship of the independent variable to
the dependent variable. Hence, they would potentially influence the dependent variable.

What I Have Learned

Activity 1: Name that Title

Direction: Base on the knowledge and understanding that you have gained from the
previous examples and activities, you have now captured the idea on how to make a
conceptual framework from the research title. With this, you are now given the framework,
and you need to formulate the research title according to the elements and factors that are
present in the variables. Give three (3) possible research titles that would reflect on the given
variables. Write your answers in the box provided below.

Conceptual Paradigm:
Answers:
What I Can Do

Task 1: Build a Framework

Create an initial research framework for your research study. Consider the relationship
between the concepts and variables in your research. Then prepare a concept map
representing this relationship visually. Use the space below for your answer, or you may use
a separate paper if the space provided is not enough.

Task 2: Say Something

After finishing your map, describe it in no more than ten (10) sentences. Use the
space below for your answer, or you may use a separate paper if the space provided is not
enough.

Additional Activity

Direction: After you submit your research framework, once it is corrected in

accordance with the guidelines given, you may start incorporating your research
framework into your research manuscript.
Lesson

2 Definition of Terms

.
What I Need to Know
Usually, in writing a research paper, the definition of terms is included. It
helps in simplifying some of the technical terms which are vital in the understanding of the
research project. Although this part of the paper is optional, it is advantageous for the reader
to include this to prevent the ambiguous meaning of terms that might otherwise be
interpreted in different ways, causing confusion. It can also enhance comprehension of
important key terms.

Definition of Terms is also called as Operational Definition of Variables (ODV).

The word operational refers to “how the word/term was used in the study. At the same time,
the variables are the elements essential to the study.

There are two ways in defining the terms, the conceptual and operational definition.
The conceptual definition is the meaning of the term that is based on how it is defined in
the dictionary or encyclopedia. Operational definition on the other hand is the meaning of
the term based on how it was used in the study.

Generally, there are two cases in which important terms need to be defined. First, if
the term is not common or widely known and second, if the term has a specific or unique
meaning in the context of the study.

Benefits of Having Definition of Terms

1. It is a useful place to include technical terms in the topic of the research questions.
2. It can clarify the definition of term, especially if it has a different meaning. Define the
term according to how it was used in the study.
3. It makes it easier to revisit or check the meaning of a term instead of trying to locate
it through the paper.
4. Helps to ensure that the reader can understand the technical terminologies and
jargons while reading the paper.

Guidelines on How to Write the Definition of Terms

1. Write a brief introductory statement. It shortly describes the content of the definition
of terms.
2. List/write the words/terms (which are technical) that would be included (make sure
that the variables and key terms found in the title are included).
3. The terms should be arranged alphabetically.
4. Indention should be applied to each term.
5. The term should be followed with a period.
6. It can be underlined or not.
7. It can be bold and italic or not.
8. It does not have to be lengthy (direct to the point).
9. Acronym/initials should be defined clearly. Complete name should be written first,
followed by the acronym/initials in open-close parenthesis, then the
definition/meaning.
10. Do not overflow with technical terms (only those relevant and significant to the study).
11. Keep the definition brief and basic. You will elaborate on it more in the body of your
paper.

Note: Refer also to your institutional format (some institutions have different formats).

Examples of Writing the Definition of Terms

1. Conceptual definition

Face to face. It is when the people involved are being close together and looking
directly at each other.

Module. Is any in a series of standardized units used together, such as an

educational unit that covers a single subject or topic.

Online. Is controlled by or connected to another computer or network.

2. Operational definition

Face to face. This refers to one of the modalities used in learning delivery in which
the teacher and students should be in the same place or setting, such as the classroom.

Module. Teaching modules are guides of the topics and lessons of a specific subject
given to students under the modular method. It is also an alternative distance learning
delivery in which students are required to read and answer the activities specified in the
module.

Online. It refers to another form of distance learning wherein the teacher and
students will have their lessons using internet connectivity.

What’s New

Activity 1: Define Me

A. Define at least five (5) key terms in your research study according to a conceptual
definition. Write your answers to the space provided or on a separate paper.
1. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
2. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
3. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
5. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

B. Using the terms in your conceptual definition, define them according to an

operational definition. Write your answers to the space provided or on a separate
paper.
1. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
2. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
3. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
5. ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

What Is It

Example 1

Compose a brief introductory statement written before the list of terms to be defined.

1. For a better understanding of this study, the following terms are defined in the
context of this research.
2. The following terms are defined as used in the study.
3. To comprehend the study better, the following terms are operationally defined.

Example 2

Write the meaning of the key terms, both conceptually and operationally.

1. Student. A person who is enrolled or attends classes at school, college, or university.

(This is defined conceptually).

Student. Refers to a person who is enrolled and attends a Bachelor of

Science in Pharmacy of this university. (This is defined operationally).

2. Undergraduate. A student at a college or university who has not yet earned a

bachelor's or equivalent degree. (This is defined conceptually).

Undergraduate. Refers to a student who is enrolled in the course of Bachelor

of Science in Pharmacy in this university who has not yet received the degree. (This
is defined operationally).
3. Graduate. A person who has completed a course of study or training, especially a
person who has been awarded an undergraduate academic degree. (This is defined
conceptually).

Graduate. Refers to a student who has completed the degree of Bachelor of

Science in Pharmacy of this university. (This is defined operationally).

What’s More

Activity 1: My Order Please

Arrange the following words/terms according to how it should be ordered. Note the
number of sequence on the space provided at the left side of the terms.

Order Defined Terms

Response rate. In survey research, the actual percentage of questionnaires
completed and returned.
Accuracy. A term used in survey research to refer to the match between the
target population and the sample.
Precision. In survey research, the tightness of the confidence limits.
Control group. A group in an experiment that receives not treatment to
compare the treated group against a norm.
Data. Recorded observations, usually in numeric or textual form
Hypothesis. A tentative explanation based on theory to predict a causal
relationship between variables.
Reliability. The extent to which a measure, procedure or instrument yields the
same result on repeated trials.
Random sampling. The process used in research to draw a sample of a
population strictly by chance, yielding no discernible pattern beyond chance.
Parameter. A coefficient or value for the population that corresponds to a
particular statistic from a sample and is often inferred from the sample.
Synchronic reliability. The similarity of observations within the same time
frame; it is not about the similarity of things observed.

What I Have Learned

Activity 1: Spot Me Wrong

Read the following definition of terms and identify the errors on how it was written.
Rewrite the correct terms and its definition to the space provided.

Definition of Terms Answer

Mean. The average score within a
distribution.
Median=The center score in a
distribution.
mode. The most frequent score in a
distribution.

RANGE. The difference between the

highest and lowest scores in a distribution.
ANOVA. A method of statistical
analysis used to determine differences
among the means of two or more groups on
a variable.

What I Can Do

Task 1: Define Me Operationally

Base on your research title and research framework, organize your definition of
terms. Write the complete definition of terms of your research study operationally as directed
by the guidelines given to you in this module. Note that there are other ways or formats of
writing your definition of terms depending on the guidelines of your institution. You may use
a separate paper if the space provided is not enough.

Additional Activity

Direction: After you submit your definition of terms, once it is corrected in

accordance with the guidelines given, you may start incorporating them into your
research manuscript.