Theoretical Framework Builder
A comprehensive theoretical framework builder designed to help researchers develop robust theoretical foundations for dissertations, theses, and research proposals. Organize multiple theories with authors, years, descriptions, key principles, relevance statements, and limitations. Define constructs and variables (independent, dependent, mediating, moderating, control) with operational definitions and measurement approaches. Map theoretical relationships between constructs (positive, negative, mediation, moderation, correlation) with evidence and descriptions. Develop theoretical propositions with rationale and empirical support. Perfect for theory-driven research, dissertation proposals, grant applications, and conceptual model development.
Key Features
- Comprehensive project information tracking
- Research paradigm specification
- Multiple theory management
- Theory author and year documentation
- Detailed theory descriptions
- Key theoretical principles tracking
- Theory relevance statements
- Theory limitations documentation
- Theory citations management
- Construct definition system
- 5 construct types: independent, dependent, mediating, moderating, control
- Construct definitions
- Theory-construct linkage
- Operational definitions
- Measurement specifications
- Relationship mapping between constructs
- 5 relationship types: positive, negative, mediates, moderates, correlates
- Relationship descriptions
- Empirical evidence for relationships
- Theoretical propositions development
- Proposition-construct linkage
- Rationale documentation
- Empirical support tracking
- Visual framework representation
- Construct type visualization
- Relationship count tracking
- Search functionality
- Theory detail view
- Construct detail view
- Edit and update capabilities
- Delete with cascade handling
- Export to formatted text
- Hierarchical framework export
- Export to JSON for backup
- Import from JSON
- Browser localStorage persistence
- No login required
- Statistics dashboard
- Theories count
- Constructs by type breakdown
- Relationships by type summary
- Propositions tracking
- Professional formatting for exports
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a theoretical framework and conceptual framework?
A theoretical framework uses established theories (e.g., Social Cognitive Theory, Systems Theory) to explain your phenomenon and guide your study. A conceptual framework is your own diagram or model showing how you think concepts relate in your specific study - it may draw from theory but represents your unique perspective. Theoretical frameworks cite and apply existing theories; conceptual frameworks synthesize theories and show your original conceptualization. This tool helps build both by organizing theories and mapping relationships.
How many theories should I include in my theoretical framework?
Most dissertations use 1-3 primary theories. One comprehensive theory may suffice for focused studies. Multiple theories are appropriate when: (1) your phenomenon is complex and one theory cannot explain all aspects, (2) you are examining relationships between constructs from different theoretical traditions, or (3) your research is interdisciplinary. Avoid "theory shopping" - use only theories that genuinely inform your research questions and variables.
How do I choose the right theory for my research?
Select theories based on: (1) alignment with your research questions and constructs, (2) explanatory power for your phenomenon, (3) level of analysis matching your study (individual, organizational, societal), (4) empirical support in similar contexts, (5) common use in your discipline for legitimacy. Read how others studying similar phenomena have used theory. This tool helps you document multiple theories, compare their relevance, and justify your final selection.