conceptual model

conceptual model 

a set of concepts, with propositions that describe them, express the relationship between them, or set forth the basic assumptions of the model. Both the concepts and the propositions of a conceptual model are abstract and very general and are often expressed in a vocabulary that is distinctive for each model; however, the concepts and propositions of a conceptual model are less abstract than those of a metaparadigm, from which a conceptual model is derived. A conceptual model provides a framework for the organization of the knowledge of a discipline, determining the focus of the discipline and serving as a guide for observation and interpretation.

For conceptual models developed by nursing theorists for the discipline of nursing, see adaptation model; behavioral system model; conservation model; general systems framework and theory of goal attainment; health as expanding consciousness; neuman's systems model; science of unitary human beings; self-care model; theory of human becoming; and theory of human caring.