Looking From a Theoretical Lens Perspective
The language of qualitative research can be confusing. The words sound like regular English, but they have very particular meanings. To make the language even more complicated, the definitions can vary across different qualitative methodological scholars.
For the purpose of this course, distinctions between three important concepts should be considered:
Theoretical lens:
the position the researcher takes to identify what kind of knowledge (ontology) and knowledge process (epistemology) they will use for their study. The position directs the choice of research approach, procedures, and interpretative framework.
Examples:
Interpretivism, constructivism, critical theory, feminist theory
Theoretical framework:
the use of constructs and propositions a recognized theory (or theories) to a research problem, purpose, and question.
Examples:
Social Influence theory, transformational leadership theory, game theory
Conceptual framework:
the construction of ideas, assumptions, and beliefs sourced in both the literature and one’s own experience, which identify the main concepts that guide the formulation of the research problem, purpose, and question.
Examples:
Concepts from positive psychology, mindfulness meditation, language development models
.
Looking From a Theoretical Lens PerspectiveThe language of qualita.docx
1. Looking From a Theoretical Lens Perspective
The language of qualitative research can be confusing. The
words sound like regular English, but they have very particular
meanings. To make the language even more complicated, the
definitions can vary across different qualitative methodological
scholars.
For the purpose of this course, distinctions between three
important concepts should be considered:
Theoretical lens:
the position the researcher takes to identify what kind of
knowledge (ontology) and knowledge process (epistemology)
they will use for their study. The position directs the choice of
research approach, procedures, and interpretative framework.
Examples:
Interpretivism, constructivism, critical theory, feminist theory
Theoretical framework:
the use of constructs and propositions a recognized theory (or
theories) to a research problem, purpose, and question.
Examples:
Social Influence theory, transformational leadership theory,
game theory
Conceptual framework:
the construction of ideas, assumptions, and beliefs sourced in
both the literature and one’s own experience, which identify the
main concepts that guide the formulation of the research
problem, purpose, and question.
Examples:
Concepts from positive psychology, mindfulness meditation,
language development models
