Conceptual
Framework &
Review of Related
Literature
RYAN MICHAEL D. TOGONON
TEACHER III
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 fore researchers so that
they are more focused on the scope of their studies.
Theoretical & Conceptual
Framework
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.
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.
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 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, graphs, organizers, tables, flowcharts, Venn Diagrams or
Timelines.
Concept maps are very much useful for the researchers and readers who
understand better visually. With the proper connection of lines and linking
arrows to shape and other symbols representing your concepts about the
research.
Going Back/Understanding
Variables
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. Moreover, it
refers to the variable that is stable and
unaffected by the other variables you are trying to
measure.
Dependent Variable
“Presumed effect” of the research problem
It is usually the problem itself or the element that is
being questioned.
It is also called the criterion, effect, response or
outcome.
Moderating Variable
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. This is also called as the
interaction effect.
Mediating 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
Input Process Model (IPO)
A conceptual paradigm which indicates the inputs, required process,
and the output.
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. The
Process is the intervention or solution consist of the instruments and
analyses used to acquire result. Lastly, the OUTPUT is the findings or
outcome of the interventions being made to solve the identified
problem.
Example of a Conceptual
Framework
Interpretation
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.
IPO Example
Interpretation
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.
Definition of Terms
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.
Conceptual Definition is the meaning of the term that is
used based on how it is defined in the dictionary or
encyclopedia.
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.
Exampl
es
Research Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a tentative statement about the relationship
between or more variables. It is specific and testable prediction on
what you expect to happen with the variables in your study.
It is also described as an “educated guess” of what possibly the
result would be of your research, which should be supported on
existing theories and knowledge. Furthermore, the hypothesis
states a tentative answer to your research question that can be
tested by further investigation in which can support or refute
through scientific research.
Types of Hypothesis
1. Simple Hypothesis
2. Complex Hypothesis
3. Empirical Hypothesis
4. Logical Hypothesis
5. Statistical Hypothesis
6. Null Hypothesis
7. Alternative Hypothesis
Simple Hypothesis
A simple hypothesis is a prediction of the
relationship between two variables, the independent
variable and the dependent variable. It shows a
connection between one independent variable and a
single dependent variable (https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: The higher the poverty rate in society (one
independent variable), the higher the number would
be the out of school youth (one dependent variable).
Complex Hypothesis
The complex hypothesis reflects the relationship
between the independent variable and the
dependent variable. It expresses a connection
between two or more independent variables and two
or more dependent variables (https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: Eating more vegetables and fresh fruits
(independent variables) leads to boost immune
system and enhance blood circulation and digestion
(dependent variables).
Empirical Hypothesis
An empirical hypothesis is also called as the “working hypothesis.” It is
presumed to explain certain facts and relationships of phenomena. It comes
to life when a theory is being put to the test, using observation and
experiment. From the name itself “working,” it would mean that it can be
changed or replace anytime as soon as it is no longer supported or accepted
base on the observation and experimentation being done. It is going
through some trial and error and perhaps changing around those
independent variables
Ex: Plants watered everyday grow faster than plants watered once a week.
(Here, trial and error are leading to a series of findings).
Logical Hypothesis
Logical hypothesis expresses explanation with limited
evidence that can be verified logically. It reflects a
relationship of the variables which anchored based on logical
phenomena. Sometimes, a logical hypothesis can be
turned into an empirical hypothesis in which you have to
test your theories and postulates (https://bit.ly/37UCE9q).
Ex: Tomato plants bear fruit faster in Earth than in Moon.
(Until we are can test the soil and plant growth in Moon's
ground, the evidence for this claim will be limited, and the
hypothesis will only remain logical).
Statistical Hypothesis
A statistical hypothesis is an analysis of a portion of a
population. It can be verified statistically. The variables in a
statistical hypothesis can be transformed into quantifiable sub-
variable to assess it statistically
Ex: If your research is about the psychosocial development of
K-3 pupils of the private and public schools in the city, you
would want to examine every single K-3 pupil in the city. It is
not practical. Therefore, you would conduct your research
using a statistical hypothesis or a sample of the K-3 pupil
population.
Null Hypothesis
The null hypothesis is denoted with the
symbol Ho It exists when you consider that
there is no relationship between the
independent and dependent variables or that
there is an insufficient amount of information
to claim a scientific hypothesis
(McLeod,2020).
Ex: There is no significant change in my
health, whether I exercise every day or not.
Alternative Hypothesis
An alternative hypothesis is denoted with the symbol
(Ha). It is an alternate statement expressed to be
tested in order to generate the desired output when
the empirical or working hypothesis is not accepted.
In an attempt to disprove a null hypothesis, you tend
to seek an alternative hypothesis (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: My health improves during the times when I
sleep 8 hours a day than sleeping for 4 hours only.
Two Classifications of a
Hypothesis
Directional Hypothesis relates the relationship between the
variables and can also predict its nature. It illustrates the direct
association of the impact of the independent variable with the
dependent variable, whether it is positively or negatively affected.
The direction of the statement should be clear and justified
according to the findings of the study. Since the hypothesis is
gearing to one specific direction it is investigated through a one-
tailed test (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: Students who are eating nutritious food have higher grades
than students not having a proper meal. (This shows that there is
an effect between the grades and nutritious food and the direction
of effect is clear that the students got a higher grade).
Non-directional Hypothesis
A non-directional hypothesis is used when there is no principle
involved. It is a premise that a relationship exists between two
variables. However, the direction of the effect is not specifically
determined. It is a statement that reflects the association of the
independent variable to the dependent variable without predicting
the exact nature of the direction of the relationship. This relationship
is not specified as negative or positive. The hypothesis, in this case, is
investigated through a two-tailed test (McLeod, 2020).
Ex: There is a significant difference in the average grades between
those students that have proper nutritious meal and those that do not
have proper meals. (This depicts that there is an effect between the
average grades and nutritious food, but it does not reflect the
direction of the effect whether it is positively or negatively affected).
Guidelines in formulating a
Hypothesis
1. Before writing your specific hypothesis, spend more time researching
about the topic you are interested in. Focus on information and previous
studies related to your topic.
2. Your independent variable and dependent variable must be included in
your hypothesis.
3. The relationship of your variables must be reflected in your hypothesis.
Will your independent variable affects your dependent variable?
4. Your hypothesis should be simple and specific as possible. If your
hypothesis is vague and complicated, it would be difficult to find the
answer to your question.
5. Your hypothesis should be concise and comprises clear and simple
language. Make it short and simple for
6. Your hypothesis should be testable without violating
ethical standards. It means that it could be investigated
and measured through a scientific methods such as
statistical analysis and data interpretation.
7. Your hypothesis must be falsifiable. It means that
your hypothesis can be proven wrong through
experiments or empirical data. There are no absolute
answers to research questions, but there is a possibility
of validating the hypotheses to be true beyond a
reasonable doubt.
Review of Related Literature
Review of related literature is a compilation of studies
related to a specific area of research (Fraenkel & Wallen,
2020). It evaluates, classifies and summarizes all the
relevant previous studies conducted on a specified topic.
It is also design to justify your research by exposing the
gaps of the previous studies. It is vital that your literature
review is centralized. Thus, you should choose studies
that are focused to your topic rather than collecting a
broader scope of studies which are already not relevant to
your research.
Purpose of a Literature Review
1. To discover the connection of your research to the
existing body of knowledge and to the real-life situations.
2. To identify more theories or concepts as the
foundation of your research study and learn from them.
3. To determine the relationship of your research with
previous research studies to prevent duplication and to
acknowledge other researchers.
4. To acquire knowledge on the accuracy and significance
of your research questions.
5. To acquaint yourself with the technical
terminologies relevant to your study.
6. To determine possible gaps, conflicts, and open
questions left from other researches which might help
you in formulating and justifying your research ideas.
7. To clarify misconceptions on previous researches
and help refocus, polish, and contribute to the
development of the body of knowledge.
Structure of a Literature Review
Types of a Literature Review
Where can you find review of
related literature?
1. Books
2. Scholarly Journals
3. Dissertations
4. Government Documents
5. Policy Reports & Presented Papers
6. Periodicals= findings of the study which can be seen in
newspapers, magazines, TV, and internet news summary.
In-text Citation and Referencing
Styles
Two Forms of in-text Citation
Parenthetical citation: the authors are not mentioned in the
sentence, just the contetnt of their work. Place the citation at
the end of the sentence or clause where you have used their
information.
Example:
Gamification involves giving the mechanics or principles of a
game to another activity (Becker, 2013, p.34).
Narrative Citation
The authors are part of the sentence you
You are referring to them by name
Example:
Becker(2013, p.25) defined gamification as giving the mechanics of
principles of a game to other activities.
Cho and Cataneda (2019, p.23) noted that game-like activities are
frequently used in language classes that adopt mobile and computer
techniques.
