6 Theory Mapping: Conceptual and Operational Definitions

Prerequisite Knowledge
  • Problems, objectives, hypotheses, and variables in studies
  • Introduction to study frameworks
Learner Setting Classroom
Strategy Type Small group
Time Faculty prep: 45 minutes

Delivery with students: 30 minutes

Evaluation: 15 minutes
Learning Objectives
  • To distinguish and critique conceptual and operational definitions
  • To identify connections between nursing theory and research
Materials/Resources Map templates (see below)

Mapping pieces (see below)

Envelopes

Glue sticks

Completed student example (see below)
Strategy Overview After a brief instructor-generated example regarding the differences and connection between conceptual and operational definitions, students work in small groups to sort and place conceptual and operational definitions onto a map of a theory of pain. The instructor circulates the room to provide guidance and facilitates a discussion of the groups’ answers when the task is complete.
Steps
  1. Demonstrate difference and relationship between conceptual and operational definitions using a simple example, or one from a published study.
  2. Distribute one map template, one envelope of color-coded mapping pieces, and one glue stick to each group
  3. Instruct students that their task is to sort the mapping pieces and glue the conceptual and operational definitions for each box in its appropriate place. Each color corresponds to one row (or column); the students must determine where the correct colors go.
  4. Circulate through room to assist student groups as needed.
  5. Facilitate group discussion of answers.
  6. Note: Students like to take photos of the completed map so all can have a copy of the work.
Evaluation Low stakes – Instructor feedback during class activity and/or credit for active participation

Theory Mapping: Instructor generated example

Conceptual Definition Operational Definition
The abstract or theoretical meaning of the concept being studies The operations that researchers must perform to collect and measure the required information
Conceptual Definition Operational Definition
Weight The gravitational pull on an object’s mass An object’s weight in pounds, to the nearest whole pound
Anxiety A feeling of unease Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale

Palmar Sweat Index

Theory Mapping: Map template

Students glue conceptual definitions for each box beside (C) and operational definitions beside (O).

Pain: A balance between analgesia and side effects.
Adapted from Good, M. (1998). A middle range theory of acute pain management: Use in research. Nursing Outlook, 46(3), 120-124.

Theory Mapping: Mapping pieces

Opioid analgesic or local anesthetic given systemically or by epidural for acute pain Drug, dose, frequency, route, and method of administration
Analgesic given as a supplement Drug dose, frequency, route, and method of administration
Complementary nursing therapies: relaxation, music, imagery, massage, or cold for pain relief Technique, dose, frequency, and mastery of use
Report of pain and side effects every 2-4 hours Pain rating scale & patient report or nurse observation of side effects of opioids
Pain/side effect intensity greater than mutual goal Number and intensity of side effects that are unacceptable to patient/nurse
Immediate intervention for pain and side effects; reassessment when peak effect is expected, and reintervention if pain and side effects are still unacceptable Nurse documentation
Patient instruction, encouraging attitudes, expectations, and action in reporting pain, obtaining medication, preventing pain during activity, and using complimentary therapies Documentation of nurse instruction, or patient use of audio/videotape
Mutually agreed upon, safe, realistic goals for relief Nurse discussions with patient daily, including documentation
Patient satisfaction with relief of pain and relief or absence of side effects Pain intensity on a visual analog scale
Opioid Side Effect Scale

Theory Mapping: Completed student example

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Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning Copyright © 2018 by Susan M. Strouse PhD, RN; Genevieve B. Elrod PhD, RN, OCN; and Karyn Butler PhD, RN, FPMHNP-BC, CNM is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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