RCE2601
Assignment 4
Due 4 September 2025
,RCE2601
Assignment 4
Due 4 September 2025
Research and Critical reason
Question 1 – Literature Review Design
a) Conceptual Framework vs. Theoretical Framework
In scholarly research, the theoretical framework and conceptual framework serve as
foundational structures, yet they differ markedly in origin, purpose, and application.
A theoretical framework is deductive and anchored in established, generalisable
theories that have been rigorously tested over time. It provides a defined lens for
interpreting phenomena, specifying variables, and predicting relationships prior to
empirical investigation (Grant & Osanloo, 2014). For example, Vygotsky’s Sociocultural
Theory offers structured constructs for understanding how social interaction influences
learning, while Lewin’s Field Theory provided early action research with predictive
models for group behaviour change (Lewin, 1946). Theoretical frameworks tend to be
rigid, focusing on testing hypotheses derived from existing theory (Adom, Hussein, &
Joe, 2018).
By contrast, a conceptual framework is inductive, emergent, and context-specific. It
synthesises ideas from multiple literature sources, practitioner insights, and empirical
gaps to map out the relationships and processes relevant to a particular study
(Jabareen, 2009). Conceptual frameworks are adaptable, functioning as “living
documents” that evolve as the study progresses (Miles, Huberman, & Saldaña, 2014).
They often integrate constructs from diverse theoretical traditions, making them suitable
for complex, real-world contexts.
, Key Differences:
Feature Theoretical Framework Conceptual Framework
Basis Established, formal theory Synthesised concepts from multiple
sources
Approach Deductive Inductive
Flexibility Fixed, theory-bound Adaptable and evolving
Purpose Tests or applies existing theory Maps study-specific variables and
processes
Example Applying Piaget’s Cognitive Integrating teacher reflection, student
Development Theory to measure feedback, and cultural dynamics to
learning stages explain participation
Appropriateness for This Study:
Given that this action research focuses on enhancing learner participation in under-
resourced South African classrooms, a conceptual framework is more appropriate.
Action research thrives on context-specific, practitioner-driven insights that may not
align neatly with the boundaries of a single theory (McMillan & Schumacher, 2014). The
flexibility of a conceptual framework allows for integration of local cultural, linguistic, and
socio-economic variables—factors often oversimplified in broad theoretical models. This
adaptability ensures the framework can be refined through the iterative cycles of
planning, acting, observing, and reflecting inherent in action research (Kemmis,
McTaggart, & Nixon, 2014).
Assignment 4
Due 4 September 2025
,RCE2601
Assignment 4
Due 4 September 2025
Research and Critical reason
Question 1 – Literature Review Design
a) Conceptual Framework vs. Theoretical Framework
In scholarly research, the theoretical framework and conceptual framework serve as
foundational structures, yet they differ markedly in origin, purpose, and application.
A theoretical framework is deductive and anchored in established, generalisable
theories that have been rigorously tested over time. It provides a defined lens for
interpreting phenomena, specifying variables, and predicting relationships prior to
empirical investigation (Grant & Osanloo, 2014). For example, Vygotsky’s Sociocultural
Theory offers structured constructs for understanding how social interaction influences
learning, while Lewin’s Field Theory provided early action research with predictive
models for group behaviour change (Lewin, 1946). Theoretical frameworks tend to be
rigid, focusing on testing hypotheses derived from existing theory (Adom, Hussein, &
Joe, 2018).
By contrast, a conceptual framework is inductive, emergent, and context-specific. It
synthesises ideas from multiple literature sources, practitioner insights, and empirical
gaps to map out the relationships and processes relevant to a particular study
(Jabareen, 2009). Conceptual frameworks are adaptable, functioning as “living
documents” that evolve as the study progresses (Miles, Huberman, & Saldaña, 2014).
They often integrate constructs from diverse theoretical traditions, making them suitable
for complex, real-world contexts.
, Key Differences:
Feature Theoretical Framework Conceptual Framework
Basis Established, formal theory Synthesised concepts from multiple
sources
Approach Deductive Inductive
Flexibility Fixed, theory-bound Adaptable and evolving
Purpose Tests or applies existing theory Maps study-specific variables and
processes
Example Applying Piaget’s Cognitive Integrating teacher reflection, student
Development Theory to measure feedback, and cultural dynamics to
learning stages explain participation
Appropriateness for This Study:
Given that this action research focuses on enhancing learner participation in under-
resourced South African classrooms, a conceptual framework is more appropriate.
Action research thrives on context-specific, practitioner-driven insights that may not
align neatly with the boundaries of a single theory (McMillan & Schumacher, 2014). The
flexibility of a conceptual framework allows for integration of local cultural, linguistic, and
socio-economic variables—factors often oversimplified in broad theoretical models. This
adaptability ensures the framework can be refined through the iterative cycles of
planning, acting, observing, and reflecting inherent in action research (Kemmis,
McTaggart, & Nixon, 2014).
