Framework Analysis
Framework Analysis is a qualitative research method that is used to examine data within a specific theoretical framework. This means that the researcher will analyze the data through the lens of a specific theory or model in order to understand how the data can be interpreted within that framework.
The aim of framework analysis is to generate theory from data. This theoretical perspective is particularly useful when investigating areas where little research has been conducted.
Example of Framework Analysis
When conducting a framework analysis, researchers must first establish the parameters of the study. For example, if studying the impact of a new policy on health outcomes, the researcher would need to identify what data to collect and how to measure health outcomes. Once these parameters are established, the researcher can begin to develop a framework for analyzing the data.
How to conduct Framework Analysis
There are three main steps in conducting framework analysis:
Familiarising oneself with the data
Familiarising oneself with the data involves reading and re-reading the data multiple times. It is also important to take note of any patterns or themes that emerge. Once one has a good understanding of the data, they can begin to generate ideas and concepts.
Generating ideas and concepts from the data
Generating ideas and concepts from the data can be done through coding. Coding is the process of assigning labels to pieces of data so that they can be sorted and analyzed.
Developing a theoretical framework
When choosing a theoretical framework for your study, consider what you want to learn from your data. Do you want to generate new theory, or test and compare the existing theory?
When to use Framework Analysis
There are a few key times when Framework Analysis is particularly useful.
- When you are looking at a new problem and trying to develop an understanding of it, Framework Analysis can be helpful in providing a structure for your thinking.
- When you have a good understanding of the problem but are struggling to find a solution, Framework Analysis can help you identify potential areas for intervention.
- When you are evaluating the effectiveness of an intervention or policy, Framework Analysis can provide a systematic way to assess impact.
Purpose of Framework Analysis
The purpose of framework analysis is to provide a systematic and rigorous way of examining data in order to draw conclusions about the phenomenon being studied. This type of analysis can be used to answer research questions, evaluate theories, and develop new understandings. Framework analysis is a flexible and adaptable method that can be used in a variety of settings and with different types of data.
Advantages of Framework Analysis
Some Advantages of Framework Analysis are:
- Framework analysis is a flexible method that can be adapted to different research questions and data sets.
- It allows for the identification of patterns and themes in the data, which can be used to develop hypotheses or theories.
- Framework analysis is a systematic approach that can be replicated by other researchers.
- It can provide detailed insights into complex phenomena.
- The results of framework analysis can be presented in a clear and concise manner.
Limitation of Framework Analysis
Some Limitation of Framework Analysis are:
- Framework analysis can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. This is because it involves an in-depth analysis of data, which can be time-consuming to do.
- It often requires multiple rounds of coding and re-coding in order to produce reliable results.
- It can be difficult to ensure the validity and reliability of the results. This is because this method relies heavily on the researcher’s interpretation of the data. Therefore, if the researcher has a biased interpretation of the data, this will impact the results of the study.
