D&I TMFs should be used to inform all phases of the research process, from early development of D&I research questions through to analyses and dissemination of research findings. Once you have Selected, Combined, and/or Adapted your D&I TMF(s), it is time to put it/them into action. The Use section provides guidance on how to operationalize the selected D&I TMF(s) throughout your D&I project.
D&I TMFs are used to frame D&I projects including shaping the specific aims and objectives, identifying designs and assessments, and interpreting findings. “Using the TMF” means that the concepts and processes described in the protocol are informed by the D&I TMF. A common limitation of a grant application is that a TMF is mentioned in the beginning of the proposal, but is not fully integrated across all parts of the proposal. Later, when conducting your study, it is helpful to continually return to your TMF to ensure that assessments and data collection procedures align with the TMF and its key constructs.
The earliest use of a TMF is often when a D&I project is being designed and a grant proposal is being written. It is crucial to introduce your TMF early in your grant application, generally in the Aims page.
Across all stages. The D&I TMF should be apparent in your aims, design, study activities, selections of assessments, evaluation, analyses, and the interpretation and dissemination of findings.
Use of a D&I TMF implies the conversion of the TMF into measurable constructs. This allows you to conceptualize and evaluate/quantify dependent and independent variables as well as mediators and moderators. The combination of quantitative and qualitative methods (e.g mixed-methods) are often best suited to capture the essence of a D&I construct. This tool allows users to identify relevant constructs and begin to determine how each construct contributes to study design. This tool also provides a description of each construct and affiliated assessments in the Assess section of this web tool.
TMFs are used to guide research and help researchers to interpret findings and contribute to the science. Once you have selected, combined and/or adapted a D&I TMF, you need to use the TMF in several parts of your study (from planning a study to carrying out a project). The earliest use of a TMF is often when a grant proposal is being written. It is crucial to introduce your TMF early in your grant application, generally in the Aims page. “Using the TMF” means that your protocol is based on the concepts, terminology, and processes described. A common limitation of a grant application is that a TMF is mentioned in one section, but is not fully integrated across all parts of the proposal. Later, when conducting your study, it is helpful to continually return to your TMF to ensure that assessments and data collection procedures align with the TMF and its key constructs. There are several general issues to be considered when using a D&I TMF.
You can use the fillable PDF on this page that will walk you through this process.
