Sharon M. (University of Pennsylvania, USA) Ravitch & J. Matthew (University of Pennsylvania, USA) Riggan 
Reason & Rigor : How Conceptual Frameworks Guide Research [PDF ebook] 
How Conceptual Frameworks Guide Research

Designed for novice as well as more experienced researchers, Reason & Rigor presents conceptual frameworks as a mechanism for aligning literature review, research design, and methodology. The book explores the conceptual framework—defined as both a process and a product—that helps to direct and ground researchers as they work through common research challenges. Focusing on published studies on a range of topics and employing both quantitative and qualitative methods, the updated Second Edition features two new chapters and clearly communicates the processes of developing and defining conceptual frameworks.