3.1 Theory
A theory is a set of systematically interrelated concepts, definitions, and propositions that are used to explain and predict facts.
In scientific research, theory and research are complementary and inseparable. Interaction of theory and research develops applied science. Research either develops new theory or improves the existing theories.
3.1.1 Types of theories
1. QUANTITATIVE QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTIVE
Theory that shows the relationship of variables in mathematical terms
Theory that shows the relationship of variables on the basis of their characteristics
if a theory explains about the facts challenging to the previous theories
2. Explanatory, predictive and normative theory
explains about specific behaviour or performance of work.
estimates about situation or results that may take place in future and directs to organization towards new situations and opportunities
necessary action that is to be taken in specific situation.
3. Grounded theory
3.1.2 Contribution of Research in theory building and practices
Develops new theory
Helps to modify existing theories
Gives impute to develop theory
3.1.3 Deduction and Induction Approaches of Theory Building.
a) Deductive Approach
It is also known as top-down approach, hypothetic deductive method or falsificationism.
It is an approach where previous theories are to be deducted to hypothesis and tested scientifically with objective of developing theories or improving the existing theories.
b) Inductive approach.
It is also known as bottom-up approach.
It is a process where the researcher starts with specific observations / descriptions followed by analysis that produces explanation of the observation.
3.1.4 Contribution of Research in practice
1. Analyzing situation
2. Developing tools
3. Providing alternative solutions
4. Showing cause and effect relationship
3.2 Variables
A variable is a measurable units, characteristics, traits or attributes that varies over the units.
According to F.N. Kerlinger, "A variable is a symbol to which numerals or values are assigned."
Types of variables
| Variable | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Moderating variables | A variable that changes in the degree of relationship between the independent and dependent variables. |
| Intervening variables | A variable whose existence is essential to show the relationship between independent and dependent variables. |
3.3 Problem Definition
Research problem is the gap between actual and desired state.
Problem definition refers to:
3.3.2 Steps / Process in problem formulation
3.4 Research Question
Research question is a statement designed / developed in the research that identifies the factors to be studied.
Research question helps you to do the work in the trend as you intend. A research should find out the answers to of those stated questions after the completion of research work.
Types of Research Questions
1. Descriptive questions
The questions that are designed to describe what is going on or to assess the existing position of events, objects or issues are known as descriptive question.
2. Observational / Relational questions
The questions that are designed to know the relationship between two or more variables under study.
3. Causal or cause and effect questions
The questions that are designed to determine the effect of one or more causes to one or more outcome.
4. Research questions seeking difference
The questions that are designed to find out the difference between or among the groups.
3.5 Theoretical Framework
A theoretical framework is a conceptual model that shows the relationship among the several factors that have identified as important to the problem.
It is prepared after the literature review, defining the problems and interview with the concerned party.
A theoretical framework is a conceptual model that shows the relationship among the several factors that have identified as important to the problem.
Need of theoretical framework in research.
3.6 Hypothesis
Hypothesis can be defined as logically estimated relationship between two or more variables expressed in the form of testable statement. It is an educated guess on solution of problem or issue.
Functions of Hypothesis:
Formulation of hypothesis:
1. Discussions.
2. Internal data.
3. Literature review
4. Interview
Features/ Criteria of a good hypothesis
Types and formats in hypothesis
5. Descriptive hypothesis
presents the existence, size, type and distribution of variables
contains only one variable.
6. Relational hypothesis or explanatory hypothesis
Hypothesis that shows relationship between two or more than two variables.
Two groups
i) Correlation hypothesis
variables occur together in some specified manner without implying that one causes the other
ii) Explanatory/ causal hypothesis
A hypothesis which is formulated based on the assumption that changes in one variable changes in another variable.
3. Directional and non directional hypothesis
| Type | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Directional hypothesis | A hypothesis which is formulated using the words more and less, likes and dislikes or comparing two variables is known as directional hypothesis. |
| Non-directional hypothesis | If any hypothesis shows the relationship or differences between variables but does not direct relationship such hypothesis are known as non-directional hypothesis. |
4. Null and alternative hypothesis.
Null hypothesis
Null hypothesis: a definite or exact relationship between two variables as proportion
Alternative hypothesis
Alternative hypothesis: a statement indicating difference between groups.
Null Hypothesis (H0) =0
(No significance difference between sample and population mean.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1) =0
(There is a significant difference between sample and population mean)
Chapter 3: Problem Definition, Theoretical Framework and Hypothesis Formulation
Theory → Variables → Problem Definition → Research Question → Theoretical Framework → Hypothesis
