Theoretical Framework

grannynurse FNP student · Jun 21, 2005

Is theoretical framework the same as a conceptual framework??? I see it being used synonymously but there is one difference.

Depends on whoseefinition you accept and follow. Fawcett maintains the blame,in confusion, lies with semantics. What do you think?

Grannynurse :balloons:

llg, PhD, RN · Jun 21, 2005

Sometimes, common languge is imprecise -- particularly in activities (such a philosophizing and theorizing) in which there is not universal agreement on each and every particular -- even more so in cases (such as nursing) in which many of the people involved in the discussion have only an introductory knowledge of the subject.

Therefore: It's inevitable that nurses discussing theory will have some variation in their terminology. Personally -- as both terms refer to frameworks of concepts linked together by relationship statements, I choose to use them interchangeably in most circumstances. I try to chose the expression preferred by my listener so that the listener will relate better to the ideas I am trying to communicate.

So .... what's your point? What do you want to see happen? Are you suggesting that all the current nurses be "re-educated" in such a way as to make 100% agreement on the use of those expressions?

llg

grannynurse FNP student · Jun 21, 2005

Sometimes, common languge is imprecise -- particularly in activities (such a philosophizing and theorizing) in which there is not universal agreement on each and every particular -- even more so in cases (such as nursing) in which many of the people involved in the discussion have only an introductory knowledge of the subject.
Therefore: It's inevitable that nurses discussing theory will have some variation in their terminology. Personally -- as both terms refer to frameworks of concepts linked together by relationship statements, I choose to use them interchangeably in most circumstances. I try to chose the expression preferred by my listener so that the listener will relate better to the ideas I am trying to communicate.
So .... what's your point? What do you want to see happen? Are you suggesting that all the current nurses be "re-educated" in such a way as to make 100% agreement on the use of those expressions?
llg

I believe we have enough problems just trying to define nursing theory. Attempting to 're-educate' would be a waste of time, energy and brain power. Conceptual framework and theory are intertwined, to the point that most nurses do not understand them, and are unwilling to admit it.

Grannynurse :balloons:

llg, PhD, RN · Jun 21, 2005

I believe we have enough problems just trying to define nursing theory. Attempting to 're-educate' would be a waste of time, energy and brain power. Conceptual framework and theory are intertwined, to the point that most nurses do not understand them, and are unwilling to admit it.
Grannynurse :balloons:

I agree completely.

llg