In order to know the meaning of the term theoretical framework that concerns us now, it is necessary, first of all, to discover the etymological origin of the two words that give it shape:
-Marco must be explained that it derives from the German “mark”, which, in turn, comes from the Latin “margo, marginis”, which can be translated as “edge” or “margin”.
-Theoretical, on the other hand, comes from the Greek word “theorikos”. This is synonymous with “relative to the idea” and is the result of the sum of two lexical components of said language: the word “theoreo”, which means “I examine”, and the suffix “-ico”, which is used to indicate “relative to”.
To understand the notion of theoretical framework , it is useful to consider separately the two terms that make up the expression. Marco , among other meanings, refers to the context or environment of something ; The concept of theoretical , on the other hand, refers to what is linked to the theory (a hypothesis, knowledge that is considered beyond its application or a law that explains a series of phenomena).
The set of considerations and background that support an analysis , a research project or a hypothetical proposal is called a theoretical framework . The theoretical framework, therefore, is the basis for reaching conclusions or interpreting a result.
It is a support or reference when developing a scientific study. Starting from a theoretical framework, a researcher can postulate various hypotheses or carry out tests that follow its guidelines.
The theoretical framework, in short, is the central column of an investigation . It includes the review of research on the topic that was previously carried out and the theoretical considerations that are taken into account in the new work. That is why it works as a guide and serves as guidance.
Other data of interest about the aforementioned theoretical framework are the following:
-In it, both the primary and secondary sources that serve as pillars of the research or study that has been carried out must be identified.
-Among the functions of the aforementioned framework are acting as an integrator of the entire research process as well as making known the problems that arise in it and even giving meaning to the facts.
In order to develop an adequate theoretical framework, it is necessary to follow these steps:
-The first thing is to establish its structure, which must be made up of the research background, the theoretical bases and the conceptual bases.
-Then you have to consult all the bibliography available, you have to analyze it exhaustively and finally you have to take the notes that are considered appropriate.
-You must write the exposition of the theory and the interpretation of the problem in question.
Let's take the case of a biologist who intends to carry out a study on the impact of pollution on a beach to propose various measures that help minimize the problem. Its theoretical framework includes previous research on the consequences of the involuntary ingestion of waste by marine animals and the effect of plastic waste in the ocean, in addition to sociological and anthropological texts focused on the relationship between humans and coastal ecosystems.