The Study Framework

Developing a study framework is a multi-step process which begins with identifying the appropriate theories and operationalizing these to apply to your project.

• True

• False

The Framework is the bridge that connects different sections of a study.

• True

• False

The Research Objectives—The framework and the objectives must not align with each other.

• True

• False

The operative word in writing the Study Framework is “explain.” The text must not simply describe the theory but argue for its applicability to the project. This involves discussing the original intent and use of the theory.

• True

• False

The paradigm (positivist or interpretivist) of the theory selected must not align with the methodology (quantitative or qualitative).

• True

• False

When reviewing previous research, do take note of what theories have been used in studying the topic of the current project. This does not ensure a good fit between the theory and the topic.

• True

• False

The choice of the theory for the Study Framework is also guided by related literature. Thus, when reviewing previous research, do take note of what __________ have been used in studying the topic of the current project. This helps ensure a good fit between the theory and the topic.

______________ is the process through which a theory, or an integration of theories, is applied to a current research project.

• Operationalization

• Theorizing

• Guessing

It is thus important for communication and media researchers to have a good understanding of theories in our discipline in general as well as the specific theories which we frequently use in our own projects.

• True

• False

Findings must be discussed relative to the arguments of the chosen theory and its operationalization. In line with the deductive theory-driven approach of Positivist studies, data must be discussed according to hypotheses in the analytical framework Conversely, in line with the inductive data-grounded approach of the Interpretivist paradigm, our goal in qualitative research is to construct a model based on our findings.

• True

• False