Methodological Framework
Methodological framework is a structure that can be used to organize research. It is composed of methods and concepts that are related to a particular field of study. The framework provides a guide for the research, so that it can be conducted in a systematic and efficient manner.
How to Develop a Methodological Framework
Here are some tips for developing a methodological framework:
- Define your research question. This will help you determine the type of data you need to collect and the methods you will use to collect it.
- Choose an appropriate research method. There are many different research methods available, so it is important to choose one that is best suited for your particular question.
- Select the participants for your study. This includes specifying who will be included in the study and how they will be selected.
- Develop a data collection plan. This includes the instruments and procedures you will use to collect your data.
- Design a method of recording responses. This includes deciding whether to use pen and paper, audiotapes, or computers.
- Create a plan for managing the data collection process (e.g., careful recordkeeping).
- Obtain IRB approval for your study design and procedures.
- Select a method of data analysis.
- Develop a plan for securing and storing data.
Examples of Methodological Frameworks
- An example of a methodological framework would be a researcher’s personal lens, which includes their assumptions, beliefs, values and experiences. This is the lens through which they view the world and make sense of their observations and data.
- Another example of a methodological framework is a research tradition or approach, such as positivism or constructionism. This shapes how a researcher understands the research problem, designs their study and collects and analyses data.
- A third example of a methodological framework is a theory, such as social exchange theory or feminist theory. This provides concepts and ideas that help explain what is observed in the data.
Purpose of Methodological Framework
The purpose of a methodological framework is to provide guidance for researchers conducting a study. The framework can be used to determine what data needs to be collected and how it should be analyzed. The framework can also be used to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a study’s methodology.
Characteristics of Methodological Framework
The characteristics of a good methodological framework are:
Parsimony: The framework should be as simple as possible, without sacrificing explanatory power;
Generality: The framework should be applicable to a wide range of phenomena;
Testability: The framework should be capable of being tested against empirical data; and
Falsifiability: The framework should be capable of being falsified in the event that it is contradicted by empirical evidence.
Advantages of Methodological Framework
There are many advantages of having a methodological framework when conducting research.
- It provides a structure for the research, which helps to ensure that all aspects of the study are considered and that the research is conducted in a systematic and organized manner.
- It allows for replication of the study, which is important for validity and reliability. Replication ensures that the results of the study can be reproduced by other researchers, which increases confidence in the findings.
- It can help to identify gaps in the literature, which can then be addressed in future research.
- The framework can provide guidance on how to best collect and analyze data, ensuring that all relevant information is considered.
