A conceptual framework primarily includes independent and dependent variables, alongside other variables like control, mediating, and monitoring variables, which help illustrate the relationships within a research study.
According to the reference, the conceptual framework serves as a model designed to show the relationship between the independent vs. dependent variables in a research problem. Researchers consider several variables in a conceptual framework, which typically include:
Key Variables in a Conceptual Framework
A conceptual framework outlines the expected relationships between various factors relevant to a research topic. Identifying and defining these variables is a critical step in developing a clear framework.
Here are the types of variables commonly considered within a conceptual framework:
1. Independent Variables
- Also known as predictor variables.
- These are the variables that the researcher manipulates or changes, or those that are observed as changing naturally.
- They are presumed to cause or influence a change in the dependent variable.
2. Dependent Variables
- Also known as outcome variables.
- These are the variables that are being measured or observed.
- They are expected to change in response to the independent variable. The conceptual framework specifically highlights the relationship between these and the independent variables.
3. Control Variables
- Variables that are held constant or controlled by the researcher.
- They are included to ensure that their influence does not interfere with the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
- Controlling these variables helps to isolate the effect of the independent variable.
4. Mediating Variables
- Also known as intervening or intermediary variables.
- These variables explain the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
- The independent variable influences the mediating variable, which in turn influences the dependent variable. It explains how or why an independent variable affects a dependent variable.
5. Monitoring Variables
- While less standard terminology than the others, the reference mentions "monitoring variables." In a research context, this might refer to variables that are observed or tracked throughout the study without necessarily being controlled or manipulated, often to assess changes or context over time or across different conditions. Their exact role can vary depending on the specific research design and framework.
Summarizing Variable Types
Conceptual frameworks graphically or narratively depict how these variables are interconnected to address the research question.
| Variable Type | Role in Framework | Relationship with Others |
|---|---|---|
| Independent | Presumed cause or influencer | Affects Dependent Variable |
| Dependent | Outcome variable being measured | Is affected by Independent Variable (and potentially others) |
| Control | Variables kept constant or accounted for | Prevents confounding the Independent/Dependent relationship |
| Mediating | Explains the link between Independent and Dependent | Independent -> Mediating -> Dependent |
| Monitoring | Variables observed or tracked (as per reference) | Varies; provides context or tracks changes |
Developing a clear conceptual framework involves carefully identifying these variables and mapping out the expected relationships between them based on existing literature, theories, or preliminary observations.
