Previous Studies Inclusion: Should Previous Studies Be Included

Previous studies in the theoretical frameworkIn the world of scientific research, the theoretical framework serves as the cornerstone upon which the study is built, as it demonstrates the depth of the researcher’s understanding of the concepts and theories surrounding their research problem. At the same time, previous studies serve as pillars that enhance the credibility of the research project, as they provide the researcher with a knowledge base that shows the extent to which their study is connected to the available scientific literature.

However, with this recurring overlap between the two concepts, many graduate students raise a common methodological question: should previous studies be included within the theoretical framework? Is it appropriate to combine them in one chapter, or is it preferable to completely separate them?

In this article, we review the scientific answer to this question, and clarifyThe difference between the theoretical framework and previous studies, when they can be combined, and how to present each of them in a professional academic manner, supported by examples and practical recommendations.

Definition of the Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework is the scientific structure that the researcher relies on when addressing their topic, as it presents the basic concepts and explanatory theories related to the research problem. It can be said that the theoretical framework answers the question: “How does science view this phenomenon?”

This framework is used to explain the relationships between variables, to guide research questions or hypotheses, and to interpret the results later in light of the proposed theories. Therefore, the theoretical framework is not justa general backgroundbut an analytical tool that helps the researcher gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon being studied.

Functions of the Theoretical Framework:

• To define the concepts used in the research in a scientific manner.

• To provide the theoretical foundations on which the hypotheses or research questions are built.

• To provide the reader with a scientific context that clarifies the importance of the study.

• To guide the analysis of the results and link them to the theory used.

Distinguishing Between Presenting Concepts and Theories:

It is important to distinguish between presenting concepts (Conceptual Definitions) and providing theory (Theoretical Framework). The former defines the terms used in the research, while the latter connects them to a broader theoretical structure that explains the interaction of these concepts in reality.

Definition of Previous Studies and Their Importance

Previous studies (or prior scientific literature) are an essential part of the methodological structure of any scientific research, as they represent the collective academic efforts that have addressed the same topic or related topics in previous time periods. Through them, the researcher learns what has already been accomplished and what still needs to be studied or developed.

What Are Previous Studies?

They are the collection of published research papers or theses (Master’s or PhD) or peer-reviewed articles that address the research problem from different angles, and may be local or international. The goal is not just narration or presentation, but analysis, criticism, and comparison.

The Importance of Previous Studies in Scientific Research:

• They help the researcher formulate the research question and define the problem accurately.

• The knowledge gaps that have not yet been addressed are highlighted, justifying the importance of the new study.

• The researcher selects appropriate tools and methods.

• They are sometimes used as models to compare research results.

• The theoretical framework is supported by real experiences and previous applications.

Where are previous studies usually placed?
They are often presentedPrevious studiesin a special chapter known as ‘Previous Studies’ or ‘Literature Review’, which comes immediately after the theoretical framework. However, the organization method varies depending on the university’s guide or the researcher’s vision.

The Relationship Between the Theoretical Framework and Previous Studies

Despite the differences betweenthe theoretical frameworkand previous studies in function and method, there is a clear complementary relationship between them, as previous studies can enrich the theoretical framework and enhance its analytical power when used appropriately.

How Do Previous Studies Intersect With the Theoretical Framework?

• Some previous studies are used to support the choice of a particular theory or central concept within the framework.

• They help show how the same theory was applied in similar contexts, justifying its use in the current research.

• Results from previous studies can be cited to support the grounding of theoretical concepts or to enhance the importance of the problem.

Practical Examples:

• When addressing the theory of ‘Professional Burnout’ in the theoretical framework, the researcher might cite a previous study that applied this theory to a sample similar to their study population, which strengthens the analytical logic.

• If the researcher uses the concept of ‘Job Satisfaction’, they can present a previous study that defined and explained the concept based on the local context, showing the importance of including it within the framework.

Is the relationship between them mandatory?
It is not necessary to include previous studies in the theoretical framework, as some universities clearly separate the two chapters. However, in many cases, it is useful to cite some supporting studies within the framework, provided that the paragraph does not turn into a mere descriptive review.

The Methodological Rule:

• If the previous study is used to clarify or support a theoretical concept → it can be included within the theoretical framework.

• If the study is presented with the aim of presenting its results, methods, and methodology → it is included in the previous studies chapter.

Are Previous Studies Placed Within the Theoretical Framework?

This question is often asked by graduate students: Should previous studies be included in the theoretical framework? Or is there a clear methodological chapter between them?

The short answer: It depends on the university’s policy, the academic field, and the nature of the study.

First: the Traditional Approach (separating the Framework and Previous Studies)

In most university guidelines, especially in social sciences and humanities, it is required to separate the theoretical framework from previous studies, with a separate chapter dedicated to each within the research plan or thesis.

In This Model:

• Theoretical framework = Explanation of concepts and theories related to the study.

• Previous studies = Presentation and analysis of previous relevant research.

Second: the Contemporary Approach (partial or Complete Integration)

Some universities or academic journals allow or encourage integrating previous studies within the theoretical framework, especially in applied or interdisciplinary studies. This happens when studies are presented to support theoretical concepts or to clarify their practical application.

When Is It Permissible or Preferable to Merge Them?

• When previous studies are directly related to the concepts presented by the researcher.

• When the researcher wants to build a comprehensive interpretive framework that combines theory and previous experience.

• In short academic articles, or in studies that critically integrate theoretical review.

When Is Complete Separation Preferred?

• If the university’s guidelines clearly specify it.

• When there are many previous studies, and it is preferable to analyze them independently.

• If the researcher uses more than one theory and wants to dedicate a chapter to each.

Summary of this section:
There is no single rule for all disciplines. But the most important thing is that the organization is logical, consistent, and clearly expresses the difference between “what is theoretical” and “what is applied from previous studies”.

How to Include Previous Studies Within the Theoretical Framework

If you decide to include some previous studies within the theoretical framework, this requires a precise scientific approach and consideration of the methodological coherence principle, so that the chapter does not turn into a scattered descriptive presentation. Here are practical steps to implement this in a proper academic manner:

1. Link each study to a specific concept or variable
   Do not mention the study independently of the context. Instead, start by presenting the concept or variable, then cite the study that used or interpreted it. For example:
   “Becker (1997) defined burnout as…, and this concept was applied in the study of Al-Mutairi (2021) on high school teachers in Saudi Arabia, where the results showed…”

2. Do not list the study in its entirety
   Focus only on the part that serves the concept or theory. No need to mention the tool, methodology, and sample unless they are directly related to the theoretical analysis.

3. Use analytical, not descriptive language
   Instead of saying: ‘Study X addressed the topic of job satisfaction’, use: ‘Results from study X supported the interpretation of job satisfaction from the perspective of intrinsic motivation theory’.

4. Adhere to logical order
   Organize studies by theoretical relationship, not necessarily by chronological sequence. For example:

• First: Studies that interpreted the concept from a theoretical perspective.

• Then: Studies that addressed the application of the theory.

• Finally: Studies that supported or criticized the theoretical model used.

5. Ensure proper documentation
   Whether you follow APA, MLA, or any other citation style, don’t forget to accurately cite the study within the text and include it in the final reference list.

6. Conclude each section with critical analysis
   After presenting more than one study, create a concluding paragraph that clarifies the differences or agreements between the results, and the extent to which these studies are suitable for your research framework.

Practical Example:

Under the heading: ‘Achievement motivation in the work environment’, you might write:

According to McClelland’s theory (1961), achievement motivation is considered one of the basic drivers of work behavior, and the results of Al-Qhtani’s study (2020) supported this theory, as it showed that employees with a high need for achievement tend to achieve higher performance, which is consistent with what was found in the study by Zhang et al. (2019) in similar Asian work environments.

The Difference Between the Theoretical Framework and the Previous Studies Section

Although the theoretical framework and previous studies complement each other, each has a different scientific function in the structure of academic research, and it is important for the researcher to understand this difference to be able to organize the chapters of his study professionally.

First: Theoretical Framework

1. Objective: To present the basic concepts and scientific theories that explain the phenomenon under study.

2. Content: Includes theoretical definitions, conceptual models, and schools of thought that revolve around the research topic.

3. Style: Presents an interpretive and analytical analysis of the main variables, and is used as a basis for generating hypotheses or research questions.

4. Function: Places the researcher on a solid scientific ground before starting to apply the study tools.

Second: Previous Studies – Literature Review

1. Objective: To review and analyze previous studies and research conducted on the same problem or similar problems.

2. Content: Includes a presentation of the objectives, tools, methodologies, results, and recommendations in previous studies.

3. Style: Descriptive analytical style, in which the researcher compares what others have accomplished with what they intend to do.

4. Function: Clarify what has been accomplished previously, identify research gaps, and justify the need for the new study.

The Main Differences Between Them in the Following Table:

Important Note: Some universities may merge the theoretical framework with previous studies in one chapter, under the title ‘Theoretical Framework and Previous Studies’, especially if the content is interconnected or in studies that combine theory and application.

Common Mistakes When Merging Previous Studies Into the Theoretical Framework

When attempting to combine the theoretical framework with previous studies, many researchers fall into methodological errors that may affect the quality of the research and weaken the accuracy of the analysis. In this section, we highlight the most prominent of these errors to help researchers avoid them:

1. Presenting previous studies descriptively only
   Simply listing information about each study without analysis or linking it to the used theory loses the analytical value of the framework and turns it into a collection of unrelated information.

2. Including studies unrelated to theoretical concepts
   Sometimes a researcher includes studies just because they addressed a similar topic, without having a direct connection to the variables or central theory in their research. This weakens the consistency of the framework.

3. Boring repetition or overlap between concept and study
   In some cases, a concept is presented and then the same information is repeated within the study presentation. This repetition creates unnecessary redundancy and distracts the reader.

4. Ignoring logical sequencing
   Not arranging studies within each theoretical axis chronologically or thematically can create a kind of intellectual confusion and make it difficult for the reader to follow the sequence of analysis.

5. Ignoring precise documentation
   When incorporating studies into the framework, a researcher might overlook proper documentation, especially when presenting multiple studies in one paragraph. This is considered a serious academic error.

6. Using outdated studies without justification
   Relying on sources older than 10 years without explanation or methodological need weakens the credibility of the argument. This should be clearly justified or replaced with more recent sources.

7. Lack of critical commentary
   After each group of studies within a specific axis, the researcher should provide commentary clarifying their perspective and what they have gained from them to support the current study, rather than just reporting.

Methodological advice: Before including any study in the framework, ask yourself: Does it explain or support the concept or theory? If the answer is yes, include it analytically, not just descriptively.

Academic Summary and Recommendations

After reviewing the different aspects related to including previous studies within the theoretical framework, it becomes clear that the issue is not a definitive ‘yes’ or ‘no’, but depends on the research context and the academic institution’s approach. However, the best practices and methodological recommendations can be summarized as follows:

1. The theoretical framework and previous studies differ functionally
   The framework deals with conceptual and theoretical grounding, while previous studies focus on analyzing what has been accomplished in research. It is important that the researcher does not confuse the two roles.

2. Merging is permissible but with conditions
   Previous studies can be included in the framework if they support the theory or illustrate a direct application of it. The merging should be analytical and structured, not just information listing.

3. Follow the university guide
   Each university or scientific journal has a specific style for organizing chapters. Be sure to review the approved guide or consult with your academic supervisor before choosing the final structure.

4. Ensure logic and organization
   Whether you choose to merge or separate, the presentation should be consistent and clear, showing where the theoretical foundation ends and where the literature review begins.

5. Provide critical commentary in each section
   Don’t just repeat what others have said; highlight your perspective as a researcher. Explain why you chose this study, how it supports or differs from your theory, and what it adds to your research.

6. Use precise documentation in both chapters
   Ensure you accurately document every reference you use according to the accepted citation system (such as APA or Chicago). Don’t neglect citation details within the text and in the reference list.

7. Update your references regularly
   In theoretical studies, the proportion of recent studies should not be less than 40-50% of the total references. This reflects the up-to-date nature of your knowledge in the field.

In conclusion: there are no strict rules, but the golden rule is: ‘Make the organization serve your research purpose and clarify your scientific logic’. Whether you include studies within the framework or dedicate a separate chapter to them, ensure the reader understands the difference between the theoretical foundation and the experimental analysis of previous work.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I include all previous studies in the theoretical framework?
   No. It is not necessary to include all previous studies in the theoretical framework. Only studies that serve the concepts or support the theory used are included, while a separate chapter is dedicated to the remaining studies that address practical aspects or research background.

2. What is the difference between the theoretical framework and previous studies?
   The theoretical framework addresses the concepts and theories that explain the phenomenon under study, while previous studies present an analysis of research conducted previously and discuss their results, methodologies, and recommendations. Each serves a different purpose.

3. Can I combine the theoretical framework and previous studies in one chapter?
   In some disciplines and universities, yes. But only if the integration is systematic and maintains the distinction between the conceptual part and the analytical part. Conversely, many academic institutions prefer to separate them into distinct chapters.

4. When is it preferable to include studies within the framework?
   If the previous study clarifies a theoretical concept or supports the theory used by the researcher, it can be included within the framework. However, if it focuses on practical results or methodological tools, its appropriate place is in the previous studies chapter.

5. Are old studies acceptable in the theoretical framework?
   Yes, provided they form the foundation of the theory or concept. However, it is preferable to balance between older sources and recent references (last 5 years) to demonstrate the freshness of the approach and the researcher’s awareness of recent developments.

6. How do I document the studies I included in the framework?
   Document them like any academic reference, using the accepted citation system (APA, MLA, or others). The reference must be included in the text as well as in the final reference list.

7. Is there a maximum or minimum number of studies within the framework?
   There is no fixed number, but quality and methodology are important. In academic studies, it is common to cite a number of studies (at least 10-20 references) that support the core theories or concepts.

   

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