The conceptual framework and the iterative elements of doctoral nursing research design

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Doctoral Studies
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Conceptual frameworks are integral to doctoral nursing theses, encompassing pragmatic and philosophical research elements.
• The research process is often perceived linearly but is, in reality, a complex, iterative enterprise.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-evaluate research design and conceptual framework philosophy in light of the iterative research process.
• To provide implications for presenting doctoral nursing theses, emphasizing the dynamic nature of research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review building on previous work (Durham et al., 2015).
• Analysis of the relationship between research design, philosophical assumptions, and the iterative research process.
• Translation of findings into practical guidance for thesis writing.

Main Results:

• Doctoral nursing theses do not follow a rigid, sequential process; their progression is tentative and iterative.
• The relationship between research design elements and philosophical assumptions is inherently iterative.

Conclusions:

• The research design within a conceptual framework should accurately represent the iterative reality of the research process.
• Enhanced transparency in doctoral nursing theses requires a full description of philosophical and iterative processes.
• Moving beyond basic descriptions of research design and philosophical stances is crucial for building trust and confidence in doctoral research.