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what is a conceptual paper in research

by Dr. Ray Botsford I Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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A Research Concept Paper is a short summary that tells the reader what the project is, why it is important, and how it will be carried out. A Concept Paper is helpful for the researcher because it helps them to spot holes in her or his project that might later prove fatal if ignored.

By definition, a conceptual paper doesn't present original data…but it must present an original concept. It synthesises knowledge from previous work on a particular topic, and presents it in a new context to provide a springboard for new research that will fill knowledge gaps.Jun 21, 2018

Full Answer

How to write a conceptual research paper?

How to make a conceptual framework

  • Choose your topic. Decide on what will be your research topic. ...
  • Make your research question. Unlike the topic, which can be a broad area of study, the research question must be specific. ...
  • Do a literature review. ...
  • Identify the important variables of your study and their relationship. ...
  • Generate the conceptual framework. ...

How to write a business concept paper?

Tips for Writing Your Concept Paper.

  • Use simple, concise language. Minimize the use of flowery language and always try to use simple and easy-to-understand language. ...
  • Choose your sources wisely. When scouring the Internet for sources to use, you should always be wary and double-check the authenticity of your source. ...
  • Follow the specified format, if any. ...
  • Proofread often. ...

What does conceptual paper mean?

A conceptual paper addresses a question that cannot be answered simply by getting more factual information. A purely conceptual question is one to which factual information is not even relevant. Follow the steps below to develop a Conceptual Paper: 1.

What does concept paper mean?

Concept papers generally serve the purpose of providing in-depth discussion of a topic that the writer has a strong position on, usually with the intent of obtaining funding for that project from donors. The terms "concept paper" and "proposal" are often used interchangeably as they can be used for the same function.

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What is the purpose of a conceptual paper?

A concept paper is a brief paper outlining the key aspects of a study before undertaking the study. It is meant to provide an idea of the study. Thus, it helps the supervisor assess whether the study is relevant, feasible, and worthwhile. If not, they may suggest studying a different research question.

What is conceptual research example?

The most famous example of a conceptual research is Sir Issac Newton. He observed his surroundings to conceptualize and develop theories about gravitation and motion. Einstein is widely known and appreciated for his work on conceptual research.

What is the difference between conceptual paper and research paper?

A concept paper is about a topic of your interest which you would like to explore further while carrying out research, while a research paper is the output of your work. It is more than the summation of your sources, collage of information about a topic, and more of a literature review of that subject.

Is a conceptual paper qualitative or quantitative?

A conceptual paper is a study that does not analyze any data. It is contrasted with an empirical study, one that analyzes data, whether quantitative (numerical, e.g. statistics) or qualitative (non-numerical, e.g. interviews).

How do you write a conceptual research paper?

Popular Answers (1)Introduction (Explaining the need of and international relevance of the paper and a few statements about the existing literature)Background (A detailed discussion of the previous literature on the very subject)Purpose/Aim.Major arguments along with the supporting literature.More items...

What is conceptual example?

Conceptual definition An example of conceptual is when you formulate an abstract philosophy to explain the world which cannot be proven or seen. Of, or relating to concepts or mental conception; existing in the imagination. We defined a conceptual model before designing the real thing.

What should a concept paper include?

The fundamental elements of a Concept Paper are project vision, project scope, project targets, timeline and milestones and project management.

Is conceptual paper a review paper?

A review paper succinctly reviews recent progress in a particular topic and summarises the current state of knowledge. It is based solely on other published and existing articles. And unlike a theoretical paper, a conceptual paper often seeks to bridge the gaps in theories and to link across disciplines.

What are the 7 parts of concept paper?

title page.background of the study.preliminary literature review.statement of the problem objectives.abridge methadology.timeline.references.

What are the characteristics of conceptual research?

Relates to abstract ideas or concepts. Relies on verifiable evidence found through observation and/or experimentation. Does not involve practical experimentation. Involves practical experimentation and conclusions are based on observable, measurable phenomena.

How do you write a conceptual framework in a research proposal?

Table of contentsDeveloping a conceptual framework in research.Step 1: Choose your research question.Step 2: Select your independent and dependent variables.Step 3: Visualize your cause-and-effect relationship.Step 4: Identify other influencing variables.Frequently asked questions about conceptual models.

What are conceptual research issues?

We define the “conceptual problem” as the gaps, inconsistencies, contradictions, complexities, curiosities, and surprises that you find in your initial exploration of a topic: it is often the things that don't seem to make sense that lead to the best research.

What is conceptual and operational definition example?

For example, in a study of stress in students during a university semester, a conceptual definition would describe what is meant by 'stress'. An operational definition would describe how the 'stress' would be measured.

How do you define concepts in research?

In scientific research, concepts are the abstract ideas or phenomena that are being studied (e.g., educational achievement). Variables are properties or characteristics of the concept (e.g., performance at school), while indicators are ways of measuring or quantifying variables (e.g., yearly grade reports).

Why is conceptual definition important in research?

Also, the conceptual definition is mainly essential in research work as it helps the reader to understand the meaning of the researcher especially on the terms or concepts that may have different meanings or that may be conflicting (Bailey, Field, Froggatt & Krishnasamy, 2010).

What are conceptual research issues?

We define the “conceptual problem” as the gaps, inconsistencies, contradictions, complexities, curiosities, and surprises that you find in your initial exploration of a topic: it is often the things that don't seem to make sense that lead to the best research.

What is conceptual research?

Conceptual research is defined as a methodology wherein research is conducted by observing and analyzing already present information on a given topic. Conceptual research doesn’t involve conducting any practical experiments. It is related to abstract concepts or ideas. Philosophers have long used conceptual research to develop new theories ...

What did Copernicus use conceptual research for?

For example, Copernicus used conceptual research to come up with the concepts about stellar constellations based on his observations of the universe. Down the line, Galileo simplified Copernicus’s research by making his own conceptual observations which gave rise to more experimental research and confirmed the predictions made at that time.

What is the purpose of the thesis statement?

Thesis statement/ Purpose of research: Chronic exposure to sunlight can lead to precancerous (actinic keratosis), cancerous (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma) and even skin lesions (caused by loss of skin’s immune function) in women over 40 years of age.

Which type of research is considered the most convenient?

3. Conceptual research is considered as the most convenient form of research. In this type of research, if the conceptual framework is ready only relevant information and literature needs to be sorted.

How to start collecting research material?

1. Choose the topic for research: Before you start working on collecting any research material, you should have decided on your topic for research. It is important that the topic is selected beforehand and should be within your field of specialization. 2.

What is a Concept Paper?

A concept paper is a short document written by a researcher before starting their research project, with the purpose of explaining what the study is about, why it is important and the methods that will be used.

What is the primary aim of a research concept paper?

The primary aim of a research concept paper is to convince the reader that the proposed research project is worth doing. This means that the reader should first agree that the research study is novel and interesting. They should be convinced that there is a need for this research and that the research aims and questions are appropriate.

What are the three scenarios in which you may need to write a concept paper?

The three main scenarios in which you may need to write a concept paper are if you are: A final year undergraduate or master’s student preparing to start a research project with a supervisor. A student submitting a research proposal to pursue a PhD project under the supervision of a professor. A principal investigator submitting a proposal ...

How long is a concept paper?

The concept paper format is usually between 2 and 3 pages in length for students writing proposals for undergraduate, master’s or PhD projects. Concept papers written as part of funding applications may be over 20 pages in length.

What is the overarching research aim of your proposed study?

The overarching research aim of your proposed study and the objectives and/or questions you will address to achieve this aim. Align all of these with the problem statement; i.e. write each research question as a clear response to addressing the limitations and gaps identified from previous literature. Also give a clear description of your primary hypothesis.

Why use operational definition in a research paper?

On the other hand, the use of operational definition in a research paper to define the variables would help the reader in understanding the operations or steps used by the researcher in measuring the concepts. The operational definition aims at specifying the exact events or activities that the researcher used in measuring ...

Why is the working definition important in research?

In the research, variables should be defined using both ways. The working definition gives the reader the meaning of the terms and concepts used by the researcher. This helps the reader to have a clear understanding as he or she goes through the research. Also, the conceptual definition is mainly essential in research work as it helps the reader to understand the meaning of the researcher especially on the terms or concepts that may have different meanings or that may be conflicting (Bailey, Field, Froggatt & Krishnasamy, 2010).

What is a Research Concept Paper?

A Research Concept Paper is a short summary that tells the reader what the project is, why it is important, and how it will be carried out.

What is a concept paper?

Essentially, a Concept Paper serves the same purpose as a proposal, that is, it allows the student the opportunity to define a research focus and obtain early feedback from the committee on the research idea. A well-planned Concept Paper will capture the interest of the dissertation committee and establish a clear plan for ...

Why is a concept paper important?

A Concept Paper is helpful for the researcher because it helps them to spot holes in her or his project that might later prove fatal if ignored. The Concept Paper also opens the communication link between the doctoral student and the doctoral committee. Essentially, a Concept Paper serves the same purpose as a proposal, that is, ...

Why is supporting documentation important in a concept paper?

This is one of the most important sections of the Concept Paper because it helps the researcher to gain the reader’s attention and support by convincing them that the research is worth doing.

What is the methodology section?

The methodology section summarizes the main methods that students will use to conduct the research and analyze the data. The student should link the goals identified in previous sections to the research methods.

How long is a concept paper?

The Concept Paper is a brief document. Although the length depends on a particular school, the usual length is 2-3 pages.

What is a successful research project?

Successful research projects are based on the research of predecessors. The literature review section of the Concept Paper provides enough of a description of previous research to plant seeds in the mind of the reader suggesting more information is needed.

What is the effect of review papers?

been. In effect, review papers ground the reader, then set a course for where

Who described theory papers as more important than theory papers?

an issue. Interestingly, Cropanzano (2009) described theory papers as more

What is the purpose of the manuscript?

Purpose The manuscript reflects on the future of higher education from an emerging country perspective. The authors specifically answer how new education policies, ranking and accreditation are impacting the current state of Indian higher education institutions (IHEIs) and how IHEIs can cultivate their path towards positioning themselves internationally. This study aims to bring together existing scenarios and to serve as a springboard for future research and applications. Design/methodology/approach The manuscript is designed and executed as a conceptual study exploring the current state and prospects for IHEIs. The study synthesizes the concepts of positioning strategies in context to IHEIs. A conceptual diagram integrating existing concepts from marketing, total quality management and business education is created to understand the phenomenon among the IHEIs stakeholders. Findings The authors found that IHEIs started showing their international presence yet they are facing various challenges (government bureaucracy; international salary standards; global student population; and cultural sensitivity). The authors also found that the positioning problem is not a one-time attempt; the complexity of higher education is a “wicked problem” and, hence needs to be evaluated, changed and executed continuously. The manuscript offers relevant information to IHEIs leaders and stakeholders to improve on their international positioning strategies and proposes avenues for future research. Originality/value The study outlines future development and positioning strategic plans that IHEIs may consider and reflect in their strategic plan. The conceptual diagram on achieving successful international positioning and problem areas is expected to act as a guidebook for the key decision-makers. The focus is on distinguishing the imperatives, creating a key guide for meeting immediate requirements, allotting assets prudently to update their international presence. The study will provide IHEIs with a new lease of life in the future.

Why is it important to conduct research in management?

Equally important, we need to appreciate and strengthen our skills in developing good theory so that research conducted about these problems will advance the knowledge that is relevant to both the discipline and the profession. Lewin's (1945) statement that "nothing is so practical as a good theory" captures a theme that is as important today as it was in Lewin's time. Good theory is practical precisely because it advances knowledge in a scientific discipline, guides research toward crucial questions, and enlightens the profession of management. This special forum focuses on criteria and methods for building good theory. Its purpose is to suggest ways to strengthen our theory-development capabilities, and thereby link better theory with the disciplines and professions represented in the Academy.

Is neither paper a thorough review of the extant literature?

and creativity. Neither paper is positioned as a thorough review of the extant

Do conceptual pieces need to propose new ideas?

thoroughly. Unlike a theory paper, conceptual pieces need not propose new

Do conceptual pieces need to be at the construct level?

Unlike a theory paper, conceptual pieces need not propose new theory at the construct level ( Cropanzano, 2009 ), but rather they seek to bridge existing theories in interesting ways, link work across disciplines, provide multi-level insights, and broaden the scope of our thinking.

Do conceptual papers have data?

The simplest question to answer is that of whether conceptual papers are simply papers without data. Yes, conceptual papers do not have data, because their focus is on integration and proposing new relationships among constructs. Thus, the onus is on developing logical and complete arguments for associations rather than testing them empirically. The “but not quite” part of the response to this question centers on the fact that there are plenty of papers that have no data, but which, nonetheless are not what we would consider conceptual papers.

What is a conceptual framework?

A conceptual framework is a written or visual representation of an expected relationship between variables. Variables are simply the characteristics or properties that you want to study.

Should you construct a conceptual framework before collecting data?

You should construct a conceptual framework before you begin collecting data. It is often represented in a visual format.

What is conceptual paper?

By definition, a conceptual paper doesn’t present original data …but it must present an original concept. It synthesises knowledge from previous work on a particular topic, and presents it in a new context to provide a springboard for new research that will fill knowledge gaps.

What is the hardest scientific paper to publish?

Scientific disciplines grow from new concepts, ideas, theories and expert opinions, not just data. But conceptual papers are the hardest kind of scientific paper to publish. Too many researchers…seem to think that any non-empirical paper is simply an essay and devoid of deeper scholarship. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Should conceptual papers follow the status quo?

Conceptual papers shouldn’t follow the status quo; they need to show how moving beyond the current norm will enhance knowledge. Most researchers have experienced the struggle to get a conceptual paper published. I’ve co-authored two conceptual papers and I’m currently battling to get a third into existence.

Do scientists write conceptual papers?

Scientists aren’t trained to write (and therefore review) conceptual papers. Concepts are embedded in context and based on expert opinion. Yet the current paradigm in science training and practice is facts/evidence-based. As scientists, we’re trained not to have opinions and to control context out of experiments.

Do conceptual papers need to produce data?

Conceptual papers DON’T NEED TO PRODUCE DATA. “But meta-analysis!…” One of the most common criticisms from reviewers that I’ve experienced is that we haven’t produced data to back up our ‘new idea’. Conceptual papers aren’t about data, they’re about context.

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What Is Conceptual Definition in Research

  • The conceptual definition is “a working definition specifically assigned to a term or concept” (Bailey, Field, Froggatt & Krishnasamy, 2010). This method of definition is used in cases of disagreement or confusion on the meaning of a term. The definition usually presents the reader with an understanding of the term or concept and channels efforts i...
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Why Use Conceptual Definition in Research

  • In the research, variables should be defined using both ways. The working definition gives the reader the meaning of the terms and concepts used by the researcher. This helps the reader to have a clear understanding as he or she goes through the research. Also, the conceptual definition is mainly essential in research work as it helps the reader to understand the meaning of the rese…
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Conclusion

  • This paper explained the meaning of operational and conceptual definitions in research. The first section provided a definition of the term. The second section explained why conceptual definition should be used in research and compared it to the operational definition.
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Reference

  • Bailey, C., Field D., Froggatt, K., & Krishnasamy, M. (2010).The nursing contribution to qualitative research in palliative care 1990-1999: A critical evaluation. Journal on Advanced Nursing, 40(1):48-60.
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