what is developing a theoretical or conceptual framework
For the concept in aesthetics and art criticism, see The Conceptual Framework. For the concept in computing, see Conceptual schema. For the concept in philosophy, see Paradigm. A conceptual framework is an analytical tool with several variations and contexts. It is used to make conceptual distinctions and organize ideas. Strong conceptual frameworks capture something real and do this in a way that is easy to remember and apply.
Theories are formulated to explain, predict, and understand phenomena and, in many cases, to challenge and extend existing knowledge within the limits of critical bounding assumptions. The theoretical framework is the structure that can hold or support a theory of a research study.